(Credit: Surfing Australia)

Standing out in the world of rugged cameras can be a tough business.

Nikon has announced a three-year partnership with Surfing Australia, bringing a range of photographic benefits to the surfing community. Stephanie Gilmore, four-time world champion surfer, has also become the new local ambassador for the Coolpix AW100, Nikon's first tough camera.

Gilmore has been a keen photographer since the days of film SLRs. "While I'm far from being a professional photographer, photography is a huge part of my life in terms of helping me relax, documenting my travels and capturing those special moments," she said.

Nikon and Surfing Australia also announced a call for entries for the Surf Photo of the Year and Surf Movie of the Year awards.