Meet Brunella Mesinas and Benjamin Garcia-Miro, the creatives behind our latest photoshoot in Peru.
This young power couple, both Peruvian photographers and surfers captured the essence of one OUAA's most important values, a slow life in connection with the natural world. Both are deeply rooted in a simple, coastal lifestyle.

I had the chance to chat with brunella and he shared a little bit of her story. benjamin was bit more mysterious and he revealed himself more in pictures than in words.

Tell us a little bit about yourself…
Brunella: ”I am a photographer, free surfer and i sometimes model. I also work as a kids surf instructor. I was born and raised in the northern Peruvian town of Mancora and i find it hard to leave. I do love travelling and discovering new surfing spots.

Benjamin: “I studied hotel management and moved up to northern Peru to get away from the city craziness. ended up managing my dad’s hotel here. I’ve always been into photography, more as a hobby though. Lately, i’ve been lucky to experiment more, like with this collaboration with OUAA where i got to shoot with Brunella”.

Tell us a bit more about your connection to the ocean
Brunella: “I've been surfing since i was 3 or 4 years old, my mom pushing me on a bodyboard. Everyone in my family surfs, my brother is a professional surfer so i've always had a strong connection to the ocean. I've taken part in competitions, but I've realized i don't enjoy the competitiveness that comes with it. I simply surf for the love and joy it brings me.”

How long have you been a photographer for?
Brunella: “Photography wasn’t my first choice, although I’ve been taking photos for a few years, I never imagined i could do this as a career. I initially studied hotel management. But it wasn’t fulfilling, and the call of the camera was always stronger. after taking some photography courses, I dove into it and started shooting for local fashion brands. I have been doing it for the last 4 years, mainly taking fashion photos but I love capturing my life passion: surfing.”

What made you accept collaborating with once upon an artisan?
I chose to photograph this campaign because i strongly connect with ouaa's values and the essence of the brand. While i love the style, what truly captivates me is the story and ethics behind it. It's crafted entirely by Peruvian women using our country's natural fibres, preserving traditions, and expressing emotions rather than just trends.

What made you accept collaborating with once upon an artisan?
I chose to photograph this campaign because i strongly connect with OUAA's values and the essence of the brand. while i love the style, what truly captivates me is the story and ethics behind it. it's crafted entirely by peruvian women using our country's natural fibres, preserving traditions, and expressing emotions rather than just trends.

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See some of their work

@brunellamesinas
@benjamin.gm

Gracias chicos

xx
~OUAA