We recently sat down with Catalina Holtz, also known as Cata, to chat about her experience as a photographer at our retreat in Chicama, Peru—a place where desert cliffs meet endless lines of waves, and ancient culture flows alongside modern surf stories. In this conversation, she shares how her journey from Germany to Chile shaped her love for the ocean, how photography became her way of storytelling, and what made this retreat experience unlike any other. From capturing spontaneous moments in the water and shooting for Mamala Wetsuits, a brand made by and for women’s surfers, to witnessing the deep cultural roots of Peru’s coastline, her lens brings a powerful perspective to life at the edge of the Pacific, at the longest left in the world. Here’s her story:
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got into photography?
I was born in Germany—my dad is German and my mum is from Chile. We moved to Chile while I was still in school, and it has become my home. It’s also where I discovered surfing, which has deeply shaped the path I’ve walked and continue to walk today.
Thanks to surfing I’ve been to some amazing places that I always wanted to capture. I think It’s a privilege to experience the ocean from that perspective, and it inspired me to get the water housing and capture and share those impressions with others.
Surfing is a portal for me. The feeling of riding a wave is incomparable, but it also opens up opportunities to explore the world—new places, people, and cultures. For me, it’s not just about the perfect waves; it’s also about the unforgettable experiences along the way, and learning about new ways of life that go beyond surfing while being deeply connected with the sea. I love sharing that ocean perspective and stories around it. I believe that when you know something more consciously, we get a deeper appreciation for it, which ultimately makes us more likely to protect it.
What stood out to you most about the Peruvian coastline and culture?
Being in Chicama, what stands out most for me is the immensity of the desert and the endless lines of waves on the horizon. And this, combined with the depth of history and ancient culture, it impressed me even more. It’s a culture that has existed for so long, and you can feel that presence. Visiting ‘La Señora de Cao’ was especially powerful, a view into a past that still feels present. What also inspires me deeply is seeing how connected Peruvian culture has always been to the ocean. The ‘caballitos de totora’ are a beautiful example of that, a tradition that shows the deep connection and respect for the sea.
And of course, not to forget the food, favorite ceviche and pisco sours!
It was my first experience at a retreat, and I really enjoyed seeing and capturing Chicama from that water perspective. The swimming and the vast size of that big bay are definitely challenging, but at the same time, it made the experience special. You feel so small and humble surrounded by that impressive nature, the big cliffs and the desert. Lots of swimming, boat rides, moto taxi, delicious ceviche, and sunsets to finish the days. It’s a magical place, and sharing it with such powerful groups of women made it even more inspiring and fun! I’m very grateful for this experience and definitely want to go back!
What’s your favorite image you captured in Peru, and what’s the story behind it?
I would say there are a few, here are some:
I really like this one, because it shows a special Chicama combination: the boat rides with the amigas cheering for another amiga on the wave, and the big dessert behind. (see below)
Caballitos de totora, it is an inspiration to me to learn how it has been part of their ancient culture and see them surf it. (see above)
Iconic endless lines on the horizon (see above).
How do you approach photographing women in the water and telling their stories?
I love capturing spontaneous moments in and out of the water, because I believe that when it feels real, it will also look real through the lens. I try to stay present, take in my surroundings, and let myself be surprised by what I find. To photograph women in the water makes it especially fun because I also think there is synergy created by a women tribe.
How did the retreat inspire or shift your perspective—creatively or personally?
I’m very grateful for this experience and it also motivates me to do more of it! I love capturing moments and connecting with people and different ways of life and at the same time one thing in common: to surf and have fun in the waves. I aspire to collaborate on projects that inspire both myself and others to embrace a journey and create a positive impact in our surroundings along the way.
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