The Ocean Is My Studio: Photographer Matt Catalano’s Creative Flow

Chasing Waves Through the Lens: Matt Catalano’s Journey in Surf Photography

For photographer and filmmaker Matt Catalano, the ocean has always been more than a subject — it’s been a lifelong muse. Originally from New Jersey, USA, Matt grew up surrounded by salt air, sandy beaches, and the creative spark of his father — an avid traveler, fisherman, and amateur photographer. That blend of adventure and visual storytelling set the course for a life behind the lens.

From the East Coast to the World’s Surf Meccas

Self-taught in surfing and ocean photography, Matt’s early years were fueled by curiosity and the pursuit of waves. When a close friend joined the world surfing circuit, the duo decided to capture the experience — creating an international surf and bodyboard film at the turn of the millennium.
That passion project took Matt far from his Jersey roots — from California’s rugged breaks to Mexico’s hidden reefsand Hawaii’s legendary North Shore — solidifying his love for surf culture and water-based storytelling.

Balancing Work, Waves, and Wanderlust

Between 2000 and 2004, Matt attended Wake Forest University and Lehigh University, earning a BS in Business and graduating with honors. While his early career began in finance, the ocean always called louder. By 2006, Matt transitioned into remote consulting — a move that gave him the freedom to live anywhere with an internet connection.
That freedom became fuel. Matt spent the next several years chasing surf across the globe, documenting WQS and WCT events in Australia, collaborating on non-profit projects in Peru, and refining his craft in some of the planet’s most dynamic waters.

A Creative Evolution: From Film to Digital to Motion

Matt’s work bridges eras of surf imaging. Starting with 35mm film, Super 8mm, and analog video in the late 1990s, he transitioned to digital around 2004 — but never abandoned his roots in classic cinematography. Today, he continues to work across mediums, focusing on cinematography and motion projects that capture the raw emotion and rhythm of the ocean.

Tools of the Trade: Outex and the Freedom to Create Anywhere

To push his creative limits in the water, Matt relies on Outex waterproof housings — a system that gives him uncompromised control and clarity in challenging surf conditions.
Unlike bulky hard-shell housings, Outex offers lightweight flexibility and optical glass precision, letting Matt wade, swim, or dive into breaking waves without fear of damaging his gear. Whether he’s shooting from the impact zone or under the lip, Outex gives him the confidence to stay focused on what matters most — capturing the soul of surf.

A Life Built Around the Ocean

Matt’s story is one of risk, balance, and relentless passion — proof that combining talent, adaptability, and the right tools can lead to a life shaped by the sea. From the beaches of New Jersey to the reef passes of Hawaii, his journey continues to inspire a new generation of surf photographers to follow the waves — and to never stop shooting.

"Outex is a great addition to my imaging arsenal. I can transform most of my cameras into underwater cameras - all with the same waterproof camera case."

Outdoor Photo Series Interview

Dive into the Outdoor Photography Series by Outex — a dynamic web-series featuring award-winning professionals and passionate enthusiasts from surf, fishing, kitesurfing, adventure racing, aviation, and beyond. From how-tos and gear breakdowns to behind-the-scenes storytelling in extreme environments, every episode offers practical insight and creative inspiration for photographers and filmmakers who shoot outdoors. Join the community via livestreams, use #OutexOPS to interact, and learn how to bring your outdoor imagery to the next level