It might be the World Ski and Snowboard Festival but this year surf beat out snow at the Pro Photographer Showdown. New Hampshire native, and first-time Pro Photo challenger, Brian Nevins beat out four alpine-focused competitors with his surf-centric slideshow, winning $10,000 grand prize at a sold out gala at the Whistler Conference Centre. Nevins also took home the $1,000 People’s Choice Award. “Thanks for keeping our job alive,” a visibly nervous Nevins told the audience after winning. “This is such an honour to be able to do this. “This is nothing compared to what I’ve been through doing this job. I’m constantly embarrassed and humbled over the life that I have and sometimes I just don’t feel like I deserve it.” The night’s competitors also included Adam Moran, Scott Serfas, Camilla Stoddart and Jeff Patterson.
