He refuses to call it glamorous and maintains a modest attitude about success. Yet American photographer Dan Nerney’s work has set an enviable example both within the small, competitive circle of top marine photographers and beyond, especially among those captivated by the beauty of boats.

In his early years his art talent earned him a place at the Rhode Island School of Design, arguably the country’s premier art school. There he specialized in graphic design, which included a course in photography under the famous Harry Callahan. Working as a darkroom technician and projectionist during the holidays, he polished his printing and audiovisual skills, and in his spare time in Cape Cod Knockabouts, he polished his sailing skills. Nerney graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and what might seem to have been custom-built training for his current profession.

Five years of national service in the Coast Guard followed, including two as a public information officer in Boston. Among his more enviable responsibilities was that of press officer for the 1967 America’s Cup Races. After the service, he went to work as a graphic designer in the Boston area, formed a partnership for audiovisual work then took a break to sail the 1973 Southern Ocean Racing Conference and never went back. He became art director of Yacht Racing Magazine but by 1976, he had focused his energy solely on the camera, and he has done so ever since.

Nerney's marine work has now graced most of the worlds yachting publications major newspapers and weekly news magazines and books, Although he hesitates to claim a definable photographic style, he believes that his art and graphic design background have had a pronounced effect on his work. “I had a Japanese magazine writer once ask me if I’d every been a painter,” he says. “That was probably the best compliment I’ve ever had.” He has photographed one Olympiad and 12 America’s Cup Challenges for Time and Sports Illustrated. He photographs many events for Rolex Watch USA and is the official photographer of the New York Yacht Club. He also shoots power boats, baseball and motor sport racing. When not behind the camera or computer, he enjoys painting landscapes.