Dave "Nelly" Nelson is a globally published veteran surf and skate photographer with countless magazine covers and spreads to his name. After spending years as a senior photographer at TransWorld Surf Magazine, Nelson now shoots freelance for domestic and international publications. Major action sports brands such as Vans, O’Neill, Fox, and Reef commonly contract him to shoot on location for trips locally and abroad.

As one of the best action water photographers in the world, he is usually in the right place at the right time to produce “the goods”. Nelson’s personal relationships and the mutual respect he shares with some of the most elite athletes in the world gives him access to the best action at the best spots.

Dave’s dedication to the sports of surfing and skateboarding is matched by his values as a person. A true family man, Dave cares about his daughter and wife as much as he cares for his community of Santa Cruz. A consummate role model for young athletes coming out of his home town, Dave has helped pave the way for some of the best young talent in Nor Cal, cementing his status as a local legend and all around good human.