SURF MUSE: AMBER MOZO

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Working with creatives from all over the world is a huge perk of today's time. Being able to work with one continuously, who’s imagery and art never stop inspiring, and one you’re lucky to call a friend make all of that even sweeter. Amber Mozo, friend and long time muse of O’Neill, is our fifth Surf Muse and we couldn’t be more excited to showcase what a month in Fiji and Hawaii look like from her perspective. See her photo diary below and interview about her journey into photography.

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For those that don’t know, what are your main passions in life?

My main passion in life is the ocean. Anything having to do with the ocean. Looking, surfing, swimming, shooting and being around it with the people I love the most makes me the happiest I could ever be.

Where are you from and where are you now?

I’m from Oahu, Hawai’i. The northern side of the island and I reside here with my husband and pup.

How did you get started in photography?

My Dad drowned at Pipeline taking photos of the waves when I was 9. That’s when I picked up the camera. His camera, the one he died with. It was just sitting there in our living room along with tons of cases of photography gear. That’s what he did for a living. I didn’t pick the camera up at 9 years old with plans to become a photographer at all. I just started using it and taking photos of my life and sharing them on a Tumblr account, years later and here I am today. Still shooting and sharing photos

*Amber gliding through town in our Lana Bralette + Macrame Hipster.

Favorite subjects to shoot…

My favorite subject to shoot is the ocean, then people’s portraits.

Your caption on Instagram the other day described your love of portraits so vividly, for those that didn’t read it…

Candid, blurry, close, quick… it’s the eye contact, the stories, the vulnerability that I love so much about taking a person’s portrait. It’s a moment that someone has given themselves to me that I am grateful for.

Favorite places to shoot…

Tahiti, Fiji, Bali, Home

Why does Fiji mean so much to you?

Fiji means so much to me because it’s my little escape. It cuts me off from the rest of the world. I get on the plane with not much in my bags and spend weeks on that tiny little island. It’s like a reset button for me. It gives me clarity. being surrounded by waves is good energy for my soul.

*Pre surf styling, Amber wore our Lana Bralette with Kipling Overalls and Back Bay Hat.

Anything else about your story you’d like to share?

I’m still on my journey, I’m still wondering myself how my story will end!

Describe your connection to the ocean…

The ocean means everything to me. My mum is from New Zealand, our ancestors were voyagers, my dad died in the ocean, so naturally I feel connected to them through the ocean.

Connection to longboarding?

When I’m gliding on top of the water, It’s like watching natures show. I love that long boarding allows me to be connected to the ocean so effortlessly.

Top 3 things to do when it’s flat…

I always have a long TO DO list and when its flat, that’s when everything on that list gets done haha! I take care of editing, laundry, all that jazz. Then if I have time I’ll go for a swim.

Best advice you’ve ever been given?

A simple piece of advice I’ve been given was ‘’be grateful’’ I found that the more grateful I am the happier I am.

Who inspires you? Why?

The ocean inspires me. She’s always unpredictable and changing and still remains beautiful and peaceful.