In 2025, Dave Olson marks an extraordinary 50-year journey in motorsports photography—a career that began at just 15 years old when he started capturing local races in his home state of Wisconsin. By age 17, he had already made history as Wisconsin’s youngest track photographer and, by 18, became a staff photographer for Midwest Racing News.

Dave’s professional career took off in 1979 when he earned his first credentialed race assignment with the Interstate Racing Association. This quickly led to photographing premier series including the World of Outlaws Sprint Cars in 1981 and the United States Auto Club (USAC) in 1982. Over the decades, Dave has remained a trusted and respected contributor to these and many other top-tier racing organizations.

His images have been featured in some of the sport’s most prominent publications, such as The Checkered Flag Racing News, Speed Sport Racing News, Open Wheel Magazine, and Speedway Illustrated. His lens has captured the action and emotion of legendary events coast to coast, including the Daytona 500, Indianapolis 500, Knoxville Nationals, Pacific Coast Nationals, Copper World Classic, and the World Finals.

As Dave continues to travel a full slate of events in 2025, his passion for storytelling remains stronger than ever. In addition to his work trackside, he now dedicates time to mentoring aspiring motorsports photographers, helping the next generation develop their craft and visual voice. He’s also working to preserve and share his invaluable archive—a visual history spanning five decades in the Motorsports industry.

In 2022, Dave’s lifetime of dedication and impact was honored with induction into the Slinger Super Speedway Wall of Fame, and in 2023 the Southeast Wisconsin Short Track Hall of Fame. A true celebration of his unmatched expertise, enduring friendships, and countless contributions to the motorsports community.