𝐈𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐜 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐃𝐚𝐯𝐞 "𝐍𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐲" 𝐍𝐞𝐥𝐬𝐨𝐧'𝐬 𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐟 𝐏𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐡𝐲 𝐅𝐚𝐦𝐞

In today’s Surf Podcast show Dave Nelson reflects on the gift that was skating while growing up in the epicenter of tech, how one early gift from mom would dictate his life’s passion, the magic of living on Reunion Island in the early 90's, and how surf photography led him from darkness and allowed him to service something far greater than his own pursuits. Enjoy!
Surf Splendor - #SurfingPodcast - Dave "Nelly" Nelson | Episode 525
surfsplendorpo... (audio only)
📌 Timestamps:
00:07 Golf mirrors life with good and bad days
06:59 Nelly Nelson's family connection to technology industry
09:30 Dave Nelson's humble beginnings
16:46 Memorable year of surfing with influential figures
20:56 Tony Roberts' impact on surf media and culture
27:16 Transition from skateboarding to photography career
29:35 Transition from shooting print film to professional slide film
34:03 Cover shot to career success
36:11 Friendship leading to life changes
40:37 Reunion Island rich history and diverse culture.
47:03 Nelly had to leave - camera equipment got damaged
55:50 Recognizing the need to stop addictive behaviors
59:58 Doing something kind for someone else is important for the world
1:06:24 Santa Cruz surfing talent nurtured by TR
1:08:35 Nelly bought land in Costa Rica for surfing and photography
1:12:50 Nelly gained international recognition through media coverage
1:19:24 Print photography revival requires proper investment
1:28:09 John John Florence put on an amazing display of surfing during a swell
1:32:43 Nathan Florence is arguably the gnarliest surfer in the world
1:34:55 Nelly Nelson's unique barrel riding method
1:41:06 Surfing brings energy and joy in life
🏄‍♂️📸 Guest Info: Dave "Nelly" Nelson: / nellysmagicmoments
davenelson-pho...
Dave "Nelly" Nelson is a celebrated surf and skate photographer, known for his work with major brands like Vans, O’Neill, Fox, and Reef. Formerly a senior photographer at TransWorld Surf Magazine, Dave now freelances for top publications around the world. Renowned for his action water photography, his strong relationships with elite athletes give him unparalleled access to exclusive sports moments. A dedicated family man, Dave is also a key figure in his Santa Cruz community, mentoring young talent and supporting the next generation of action sports athletes.
🌊 Presented by: FlorenceMarineX.com/surf - FlorenceMarine...
🌍 Presented by: Surfrider.org - Surfrider.org
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About this Surf Podcast: In this episode of Surf Splendor, David sits down with Dave "Nelly" Nelson, a renowned surf and skate photographer who has recently taken up golf. Nelly shares his journey from surfing the waves to navigating the golf course, highlighting the life lessons both sports have taught him. He discusses the importance of resilience, adaptability, and enjoying the ride, whether it's catching the perfect wave or sinking a difficult putt. Through personal stories and reflections, Nelly reveals how his passion for photography, surfing, and now golf, has shaped his outlook on life, making him a beloved figure in the action sports community.
🎙️ Host & 🎬 Producer: David Scales
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Intro Music: Rostam, Wood
Outro Music: Ofege, It’s Not Easy
#NellyNelson #SurfPhotography #surfingcommunity #surfingworld

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[@scottthomasen8978]

That was fantastic.
I remember that sandbar at river mouth, with water heaters and septic tanks floating by during that el nin~o winter...we all had to get hep shots!
I know I've mentioned, but a Stretch interview would be so great as well...JJF tie in too.
Oh...and you may like, as a wine guy, ends up Stretch grew up in a vineyard..Sarah's...towards Gilroy. I found this out only a month ago, but didn't know as a kid...who also grew up in a S Cruz Mountains vineyard as well.
Thanks again....solid.

[@Suitslippers]

Great conversation with a dude who bleeds rad! Nelly is a legend! Hit em straight!