Meet Kirsten – photographer, surfer, snowboarder, and outdoor enthusiast. Living somewhere between mountain peaks and salty waves, she's built a life around adventure, creativity, and the outdoors. We caught up with her to talk about what keeps bringing her back to both.

You spend your year between the mountains and the ocean. What keeps bringing you back to both?

Ever since I was very little, there have always been two things I wanted to do all day, every day. One was spending time in the water – back then it was mostly swimming and diving in pools and lakes. In winter, it was skiing, snowboarding, and playing in the snow.

As soon as I was old enough to choose a home of my own, I knew I wanted to follow my love for the mountains, so I moved to Salzburg. But my deep connection to the water never left me, which eventually led me to surfing and surf photography.

Over the years, Spain, Portugal, and Denmark have slowly become my second homes, but I also love exploring new places on surf trips.

How did Oceanbloom start, and what made you want to create it?

My dear friend Paulina started Oceanbloom, a surf and yoga retreat for women. The idea was to create a safe space where women can embrace their true selves while exploring both the power of the ocean and their own inner strength.

From the very beginning, I was lucky to be part of the retreats. I photographed the groups and helped out with all kinds of things. This year, I'll be co-hosting the "Surf & Water Photography Week," where I'll be leading workshops on water positioning, photography equipment, and creative techniques. I'm super excited about it!

Photography seems to be a big part of your lifestyle. What do you love most about it?

I'm one of those people with lots of hobbies, but I wouldn't say I'm particularly great at any of them. Photography gives me the opportunity to get close to incredible athletes, catch a glimpse of what their lives are like, and even become part of their adventures by documenting them.

I think that's what I love most about it. But photography also takes you to beautiful places and teaches you to notice the little things and details that often go unnoticed. Almost every time I pick up my camera, it lights up my heart.

What are your Eivy favorites, and why?

I love the Fitted and Oversized Outdoor Pants. They're so comfortable, practical, and stylish all at the same time. I especially love pairing them with the Windbreaker Utility Vest. Whenever I'm out taking photos, all those pockets are perfect for carrying small photography essentials like SD cards, filters, and spare batteries. It's incredibly handy, and I absolutely love the look.

And lastly, what's one thing you always bring with you, whether you're heading to the mountains or the beach?

Obviously my camera, haha—but also my friends (even though they're technically not a thing!) I love spending time in the mountains and in the ocean, but it's honestly a million times more fun when I get to share those moments with the people I love.