SETX Surf Culture

SETX Surf Culture is an ongoing passion project that launched in January 2025. The project documents the unique surf community in Galveston and the Southeast Texas stretch of the Gulf Coast, blending portraits of surfers and local icons with documentary and lifestyle imagery. Updated regularly, this photography series will continue to offer a visual narrative of the surf culture in this region, inviting viewers to experience the spirit of the Gulf through those who live and embrace the coastal lifestyle.

This isn’t about perfect waves or big brands. It’s about the people behind the boards, the shops, the art and the lifestyle. If that sounds like you, I’d love to hear from you.

What Participation Looks Like

When I create photographs for this project, I’m creating a collection of portraits and storytelling images that may be featured on my website and social media channels, in editorial pitches, or future exhibitions and print projects related to SETX Surf Culture.

There is no fee to participate. I see this as a time-for-time trade collaboration. I give you my time, experience and creative energy; you give me your time and trust in front of the camera.

Sessions are relaxed and collaborative, usually photographed in a place that’s tells your story…your shop, your shaping bay, the beach, or wherever your story lives.

About the Images (The Fine, but Friendly Print)

To keep this project sustainable, I am unable to give away high-resolution images for free. Here’s how it works:

  • You’ll receive a small selection of watermarked images as a thank-you for being part of the project; these are great for sharing online and celebrating your involvement.

  • If you’d like access to additional images, I offer simple, affordable licensing options:

    • Licensing for 10 images - $125

    • Licensing for the full set of images from your session - $250

This helps cover travel costs, time on the road and continued investment in the project so I can keep documenting surf culture across the Upper Gulf Coast.

But, I’m always open to creative trades in place of monetary licensing fees, such as equivalent shop or merch credit, surf lessons, or art/goods/services connected to your work If you have an idea, I’m happy to talk it through.

How the Images May Be Used

By participating, you’re agreeing that images from your session may be used by Nicki Evans Photo for:

  • The SETX Surf Culture project

  • Online at www.nickievansphotos.com and associated social media channels (Instagram and LinkedIn)

  • Editorial pitches, exhibitions, and print projects related to this body of work

You’ll always be credited when possible, and your story will be represented with respect.

Interested in Being Part of the Project?

If you feel connected to surf culture on the Upper Texas Gulf Coast and want to help tell its story, contact me (Nicki) at hi@nickievansphoto.com. Tell me about yourself, what you do, and why surf culture matters to you.

Not everyone who applies will be photographed right away, but every submission helps shape the direction of the project.

Thank you for being part of this community—and for helping preserve its story.