Chasing Waves and Capturing Moments – with Julia Reuterhagen

We are thrilled to introduce Julia Reuterhagen, a passionate photographer and dedicated surfer whose love for the ocean and waves has taken her across the globe, with a special connection to Ireland. From capturing breathtaking landscapes with her camera to surfing along the Irish coastline, Julia’s life is shaped by her deep connection to nature and adventure.

In this inspiring conversation, she shares how surfing and photography have influenced her life, the magic of Ireland’s rugged beauty, and her exciting creative journey—including co-founding Squish Mag, a surf magazine tied to The Irish Surf Film Festival. Join us to dive into Julia’s story of resilience, exploration, and the art of living life fully.

Hi Julia! You are a photographer and an avid surfer. Your love for the ocean and waves has taken you across the globe, particularly to Ireland, where you’ve spent a significant amount of time.

How have photography and surfing impacted your life?

Photography and surfing are two passions that have shaped my life in countless ways. I still remember the first time I tried surfing—the joy, the adrenaline, the excitement, and the absolute presence it demanded. Nothing else mattered; my mind felt clear and light, completely focused on the moment. That feeling of freedom and focus keeps me drawn to surfing—it's difficult to describe but equally powerful as what I experience when I hold a camera.

To me, photography is also about presence—creating something that captures an emotion or a moment. I love immersing myself in the technical aspects of image-making and exploring different ways to tell a story. What truly fascinates me is the ability to compose a photo to choose how I want to convey a feeling or a message.

Beyond surfing and photography, climbing, horseback riding, and skiing are also big parts of my life. These activities demand patience and perseverance. You have to face frustration, confront fear, and accept that things don’t always go as planned. Through them, I’ve learned to be patient, to grow through challenges, and to recognize that it’s often in moments of adversity that we develop the most.

How did you first end up in Ireland, and why does your heart beat so strongly for it?

Ireland entered my life by happy coincidence. A close friend moved here two years ago, and I came to visit her. It felt like stepping into another world. The people here are warm, charismatic, and welcoming, and they greet you with open arms and a smile. About a year ago, I also met my current partner here, which made Ireland feel even more like a second home. I was fortunate to find myself surrounded by like-minded, creative souls who share my love for nature, surfing, and enjoying life.

Before the pandemic, I spent most of my time traveling. I worked at surf camps and horse ranches across the globe, from Morocco to Costa Rica. But when the pandemic hit, I moved back to Sweden and started studying. During that period, surfing fell a bit to the wayside, and it’s only in the past year that I’ve truly reconnected with it. It’s felt like starting over, in a good way, even though it’s been frustrating at times.

Surfing in Ireland is a completely different experience compared to warmer countries like Costa Rica. Here, it’s cold and rugged, especially in winter. Just getting into the water is a project in itself, with thick wetsuits, hoods, boots, and gloves. But at the same time, it’s an incredible experience. The surf here is world-class, with waves for all skill levels, and there’s something magical about being out in the water, surrounded by Ireland’s dramatic coastline. I’ve also met many amazing women who surf here, and being part of such a vibrant community is inspiring. It reminds me that surfing isn’t just about the sport—it’s about the sense of connection and shared passion.

Ireland’s landscapes are also a dream for me as a photographer. The dramatic coastlines, rolling green hills, and constantly shifting light are an endless source of inspiration. In 2024, I even co-launched a surf magazine, Squish Mag, as part of The Irish Surf Film Festival. It feels like I’ve found a place where I can truly grow, both personally and professionally.

For someone who has never been to Ireland, what five places would you recommend?

Oh, it’s hard to narrow it down to just five! There’s so much to see and experience in Ireland, but if I have to choose, these are my top picks:

Lahinch, Co Clare

If I’m going to recommend one place in Ireland, it has to be Lahinch—it’s where I live when I’m in Ireland and the place I’ve spent the most time. It’s a small, cozy village on the west coast, right by the sea, where surfing is a natural part of daily life (and golf, for those who enjoy it). You can surf at the beach in Lahinch, and there are plenty of great surf spots nearby with year-round waves.

If you go, don’t miss Hugo’s Bakery, which makes amazing sourdough bread and the best pastel de nata I’ve ever tasted. For an authentic Irish pub experience with live music and a fantastic atmosphere, Kenny’s is definitely worth a visit.

Cliffs of Moher

Yes, it’s one of Ireland’s most iconic spots, but it still leaves me speechless every time I visit. There’s something magical about this place—the way the cliffs drop straight into the sea, the wind rushing past, and the endless horizon. I love coming here at sunset when the light shifts and the entire landscape feels almost unreal. If you’re lucky, you might catch one of those moments when the waves break below. It can get massive and a little intimidating, but watching some of the world’s best (and bravest) surfers ride those huge waves is an experience in itself.

Aran Islands

Visiting the Aran Islands feels like stepping back in time. It’s just a short ferry ride from the mainland, but the landscape and atmosphere are completely different. I love cycling around Inis Mór, the largest of the islands, and visiting Dún Aonghasa, an ancient stone fort perched on a dramatic cliff. The Wormhole, a naturally formed square sea pool, is also worth seeing.

The Aran Islands are home to the classic Aran sweater, and it’s fascinating to visit one of the shops or factories where they’re still hand-knitted. And, of course, no trip to the islands is complete without stopping at a local pub to enjoy traditional Irish music and a pint of Guinness.

Galway

If you’re looking for a break from dramatic landscapes or just want to experience something different, I’d recommend spending a day or two in Galway. The city is vibrant, full of music, and lined with colorful streets packed with pubs and cozy cafés. I love wandering around, listening to street performers, and soaking in the atmosphere.

Some of my favorites are Sheridans Cheesemongers for wine and cheese (their onion marmalade for a cheese platter is a must-try—I’m obsessed!), Ruibin for amazing food, and Tig Cóilí and The Crane Bar for live traditional Irish music.

Connemara National Park

For hiking and experiencing Ireland’s most wild and untouched nature, Connemara National Park is the place to go. The landscape is breathtaking, with dramatic mountains, mirror-like lakes, and stunning views. The most popular trail is the Diamond Hill Loop. It’s a relatively easy hike, but the view from the top is extraordinary. I love how raw and untamed nature feels here—it’s a place where you can feel small in the face of something so vast and majestic.

A few weeks ago, you and your friends went on a surf mission wearing Astrid Wild's clothing. You captured the day beautifully. What can you tell us about that day, and what was your vision for the photography?

The days we spent shooting for Astrid Wild in Ireland’s dramatic landscapes were like a dream come true for me. I’ve long wanted to photograph in these environments—the raw, untamed nature, the ever-changing light, and the feeling of being surrounded by the elements. So when I got the opportunity to shoot for Astrid Wild, a brand I genuinely support, alongside two of my friends who live for the ocean and adventure, it felt like everything aligned perfectly.

One thing I’ve learned about the weather here in Ireland is that it’s completely unpredictable and unreliable, but that’s also part of its charm. It’s not about fighting against it but adapting, rethinking, and going with whatever happens. This shoot became a perfect example of that. We had intermittent rain, and a storm warning forced us to change our plans and skip a few of the locations we had initially planned. It was cold, windy, rainy, and full of unexpected challenges. But instead of seeing these as obstacles, we embraced them as part of the experience. That’s what I love about on-location photography—the need to be flexible, solution-oriented, and constantly find new ways to create the images you envision.

My vision for the shoot was to capture the feeling of freedom, strength, and a deep love for nature. I wanted to show how we adapt to nature rather than expecting it to adapt to us. My goal was to create images that didn’t just showcase the clothing but also conveyed the lifestyle and passion they represent. For me, that’s what photography is all about—telling a story and capturing a feeling.

Despite the challenges, the energy was incredible. We laughed, persevered, and improvised, turning the days into moments filled with creativity and joy. Getting to do this in a place that inspires me so deeply, for a brand I truly believe in, and with two amazing, inspiring women by my side is something I’m profoundly grateful for.

Now that you've completed your photography education, what are your dreams for the future?

Having recently completed my education in commercial photography at Fotoskolan STHLM, I’m excited to continue exploring and growing within my craft. I’ll keep freelancing as a photographer and photo assistant, building on the foundation I’ve developed over the years.

I’m deeply grateful for my previous studies at Hyper Island and my time at Fotoskolan STHLM. They’ve provided me with invaluable tools and a comprehensive understanding of the entire creative process—from concept and planning to execution and post-production. Photography is a lifelong journey of learning, and I’m curious about what the next chapter will bring. My goal is to keep combining photography with storytelling, marketing, and branding while also expanding my skills in video and film production.

Right now, I’m working on several exciting projects, including the second issue of Squish Mag, a surf magazine I’m co-creating. I’m also looking forward to continuing my life between Ireland and Sweden—two places that feel like home and offer contrasts I adore. Ireland’s dramatic landscapes and wild nature have become a huge source of inspiration for me, and I hope to use them as a backdrop for many creative projects in the future.

I’m open to new opportunities and look forward to collaborating with creative minds and brands that share my passion for meaningful work. It’s an exciting time, and I’m ready to take on new challenges, big or small.

And, of course, I’ll keep surfing. Whether it’s in Ireland’s cold waters or somewhere else in the world, surfing is a passion that will always remain a core part of my life.

Thank you so much, Julia, for sharing your journey from the world of surfing to capturing the beauty of Ireland through your lens. Be sure to follow Julia on Instagram for more breathtaking photos, surf adventures, and insights into her world of storytelling. Keep on getting inspiration from amazing women in this article about Sofia Soori, yoga teacher and surfer.