In this episode of "Speaking From Water," host Sean Ruttkay dives into the world of surf photography with Dave Nielsen. Episode 31 unfolds the story behind Dave's iconic photograph of a surfer's dramatic wipeout on a towering 20-foot wave during the legendary Northeast swell of December 18, 2023.

Join us as Dave shares the moment he captured his first water photo, an experience that ignited his deep passion for water photography. He recounts his transformative journey to Fiji, where the island's majestic blue waves and unique culture profoundly influenced his photography style and philosophy.

The episode takes a turn to the North Shore of Oahu, where Dave's initiation into the realm of big-wave photography came with its own set of challenges. Getting pounded by the mighty waves of Ke Iki Beach served as a rite of passage, bolstering h ...