EP 17: TODD GLASER – 15+ years of shooting with Kelly Slater, Traveling with Jack Johnson, September Sessions & Thicker Than Water, Becoming a new dad, Dads on Tour, Life as a pro bodyboarder, and A Life of Waves

Todd Glaser is a world-renowned surf photographer, surfer, waterman, and longtime friend of Conner Coffin. In this episode of the 805 Beer Cold Beer Surf Club, the two share a deep and nostalgic conversation that traces a lifetime spent chasing waves, images, and meaning, diving into what it’s like balancing the beautiful chaos of parenthood with a career built on sprinting toward storms and swimming into heavy lineups with only a camera in hand. Todd reflects on growing up in San Diego, learning photography through bodyboarding, and discovering his craft the old-school way – shooting film, logging detailed swell notes, mailing rolls to labs, and hoping the shots came out. He and Conner revisit Todd’s leap from surf-shop grom to Brooks Institute student to traveling full-time with Kelly Slater as one of the most respected lensmen in the game. They share stories from their years on the road together, early Surfer and Surfing assignments, and the image that led to Todd’s first cover and changed the trajectory of his career. They chat about iconic sessions in Tahiti, how Jack Johnson shot every frame of September Sessions, as well as Todd’s 15-plus years traveling with Kelly, a partnership that grew into deep friendship and a new book documenting the journey. Todd opens up about how becoming a parent and slowing down travel has reshaped his approach to both surfing and photography, and why keeping things simple, staying curious, and seeking authentic moments behind the lens still guide everything he does. New episodes drop every month. Follow, subscribe, and join the Club now. Follow Conner Coffin. Follow Todd Glaser. Learn more about Todd here. Follow 805 Beer. Get the latest 805 Beer content, the gear, and of course, the beer. Join the conversation, follow the league, and stay updated on all things WSL.