Catarina Perez | Surfer | Ocean photographer | Brazil
Catarina is a Brazilian woman, born and raised on the beaches of Rio de Janeiro and Lisbon. The ocean, therefore, has always been her home and most significant source of inspiration.
She started surf photography at a young age, slowly developing her love for the sea and noticing the strong community it had already collected. Catarina is still building her photography and videography career, yet one thing is for sure, Catarina wants to capture the ocean!
What are the fondest memories from your upbringing that you feel impacted your life choices and lifestyle today?
The changes in my life. Moving from city to city was the most significant impact on my life, and each time I moved, I felt myself grow and learn things I never knew before.
Each country and city is so unique. It taught me how to live, be, work, and breathe. The changes from São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Lisbon showed me the exterior of my comfort zone, a place I learned to go to many times more until now; it has only bought me joy.
What path did you choose after leaving school?
I am leaving school now, going to university in Milan for Art Direction, yet I want to be part of a community such as this one which can help me see the beginning of the path I want to take.
Who/what currently inspires you?
My friends. Travelling to so many places around the world, I have made friends of every religion, belief, and passion. The diveroty of each and their passions inspires me as they teach me new things.
What would you most like to change in the world/environment today?
Its balance. Humanity has become too technocentric, relying on technology and the future to save our equilibrium, but what if it doesn't? All this time wasted, species and habitats lost for a hope that may not happen?
Are there any books/documentaries that have guided your thinking, and that you'd like to recommend to other ocean lovers?
The Old Man and The Sea by Ernest Hemingway.
What legacy do you hope to leave?
Legacy is a strong word; I believe in inspiration. I want to leave future generations motivated to continue the work this community is woking so hard on and use it well in the future, continuing this journey.
What advice would you give to anyone looking to follow their dreams as an ocean Storyteller?
It's the most magical thing in this world. Therefore, you need to believe in magic for it to happen. The ocean is all around us; it's the simplest yet most beautiful source of inspiration, which many people take for granted.
INSTAGRAM: @cata_perezlf
