Along the rugged coastline of Portugal, where the Atlantic reveals both its beauty and its force, Peli ambassador Ana Catarina Teles, has carved out a distinctive voice behind the lens. A surf photographer, underwater cinematographer, and storyteller of the sea, Ana Catarina captures more than just moments; she reveals the deep and powerful relationship between humans and the ocean.

Following the world’s top surfers from iconic locations such as Nazaré to remote Indonesian reefs, her work reaches a growing global audience of over 40,000 followers. Yet, beyond the striking visuals lies a commitment to authenticity, emotion, and respect for nature’s raw power.

Ana Catarina’s work is shaped as much by instinct and endurance as by artistic vision. Shooting in fast-changing, high-risk environments demands not only creativity, but also preparation, resilience, and complete confidence in the equipment she relies on. In this conversation, she reflects on the moments that have defined her career, the realities of working in the ocean’s most unpredictable conditions, and the role that trusted gear plays in helping her stay focused on the story unfolding in front of her

You have photographed some of the world’s most iconic surf locations, including Nazaré, with its towering waves that test both surfers and photographers alike. What has been your most memorable moment shooting there, and why does it stay with you?

Nazaré is truly a natural phenomenon, and witnessing up close the interaction between surfers and those gigantic waves is an unforgettable experience, ever since the first time I went there in 2019. But I think what impacts me the most is when nature asserts itself over humans, how impossible it is to conquer or tame it. I’ve witnessed some very intense accidents there, and I believe that’s one of the greatest lessons in humility, about staying in our place.

Your work emphasises storytelling and human connection within surf culture. How do you balance the technical demands of water photography with the emotional narratives you strive to capture?

There are many beautiful images in the world, but often empty, without a message. I try to focus more on the message I want to convey — what I want to express — rather than on technique alone.
Of course, technique is important, but I aim to let my emotions flow instead of trying to work with strict technical precision.

The ocean is an unpredictable and often unforgiving environment. Can you describe a situation where your preparation and choice of gear made a decisive difference in capturing a shot you otherwise might have missed?

It was May 24th, 2022, in Mentawai, Indonesia. I was with Maya Gabeira – the big wave surfer and 2x World Record Holder – and we were supposed to leave the day before. A swell was hitting Lance’s Right perfectly, so we postponed our flight to catch that epic day. My instinct was to swim out and shoot from the water, but the current was insane and it wasn’t a day for catching many waves—three or four perfect ones at most. I held back and ended up shooting from the boat, focused on not missing a single moment. It was the best decision I could have made, because I managed to capture 100% of her waves and photos, without risking being swept away by the current or being out of position at a crucial moment. To this day, people still call it “Maya’s Swell,” because of her unforgettable performance.

In an industry where visual content is shared instantaneously online, how do you see surf photography evolving, and how do you maintain artistic integrity amid the pressures of digital media?

Surf photography has become increasingly accessible and democratic over the years. With each passing year, new photographers emerge, especially more women stepping into the ocean.
This makes me truly happy, and every new perspective that arises becomes a source of inspiration for me, something that pushes me beyond my comfort zone.
We live in a world of immediacy, and I believe that finding a balance between what truly needs to be immediate and what requires time to be processed makes this paradox between integrity and pressure a bit healthier.

Surf photography demands highly specialised equipment. How do Peli cases help protect your cameras, lenses and accessories when you are on location, particularly in rugged, wet and sandy environments?

I often put myself in extreme conditions, whether it’s intense cold, wind-swept dunes, heavy storms, or unstable boats where everything can change in seconds. In these situations, one thing is essential: absolute trust in my gear.
There’s nothing more reassuring than knowing everything is fully protected, no matter what happens. It allows me to move forward without hesitation, especially in the environment where I feel most at home: the ocean.
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve entered the water with cameras and lenses safely protected, swimming calmly to reach the perfect spot to capture the image. In the process, I choose to focus my energy on what truly matters: creativity.
As for everything else, I know Peli has me covered. 

Looking ahead, what legacy do you hope your work will leave for the next generation of photographers, particularly women seeking to make their mark in water and action photography?

I love the idea that women pave the way for other women, showing that we are not only capable, but that we can take up any space we choose, with our own personality and personal touch. Surf photography is no different.
I believe we bring a more empathetic, sensitive, and light perspective to this world. Not everything is just about performance. There are so many other layers that shape surf photography, making this universe truly endless.
When I think about legacy, I believe it’s about encouraging women to be in the ocean and to photograph through the lens of their own life experiences, in a way that is unique, authentic, and confident. That, to me, is my purpose.

Ana Catarina Teles reminds us that the ocean is not simply a backdrop, but a powerful, living force, one that demands respect, patience, and intuition. Through her lens, we are invited to see beyond the surface: to feel the tension, the beauty, and the humility that define life at sea.

As she continues to explore coastlines and chase the unpredictable, one thing remains constant, her commitment to storytelling that is as honest and untamed as the ocean itself.

Connect with Ana Catarina:

Website: https://www.anacatarinaphoto.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anacatarinaphoto