The Oceanic Humans interview series is a storytelling project by Surface Interval, created to shine a light on people across the globe who embody the spirit of the ocean—everyday individuals whose lives are shaped by their relationship with the sea, whether through surfing, diving, paddling, photography, creativity, or quiet appreciation.

In each feature, we dive deep into their stories to uncover: 💙  What the ocean means to them 💙  How it’s shaped their purpose 💙  What they’re doing to protect it. 

These are the stories that inspire us to live slower, tread lighter, and connect more deeply—with the ocean, and with each other.

Meet Ella- OceangirlElla 

📍 UK / Koh Tao 

🤿📸 PADI Dive Instructor & Underwater Photographer

🔗Instagram: @oceangirlella Tiktok: @oceangirlella

Ella’s love for the ocean has been lifelong. Growing up in a family that traveled often, she spent her childhood exploring the seas—snorkelling with her parents and grandfather and marveling at the wonders below through glass-bottom boats. From those early days, she knew the ocean would always be central to her life.

“There are honestly too many memories to speak about, but I knew from a very early age that I wanted the ocean to be a big part of my life.”

Ella didn’t initially plan to become a dive instructor or underwater photographer. In 2022, she came to Koh Tao to complete her divemaster certification with hopes of pursuing marine biology. But the island captured her heart, and she stayed to become a dive instructor while nurturing her photography—a path that has now become her full-time passion. 

🐋 A Dive She’ll Never Forget

One of Ella’s most unforgettable experiences happened right off the coast of Koh Tao:

“I remember one dive when I saw two whale sharks together! Seeing one is rare, but two is practically unheard of. It was a very special day.”

Moments like this remind her why she spends her life underwater—witnessing beauty few people ever get to see firsthand.

The Art of Respectful Underwater Photography

Ella emphasizes that the ocean and its creatures must always come first.

“I wish people had more respect for marine life. Many prioritize getting the Instagram shot over the welfare of the animal. All my best images and videos have come from giving the animal space and letting it feel comfortable to come to me.”

Her go-to gear? A Canon EF 8-15mm fisheye lens, which she loves for its sharpness and unique perspective.

“A lot of photographers aren’t fans of the fisheye look, but I personally love it. It lets me capture the underwater world exactly as I see it.”

You can also support Ella and bring the ocean into your space by purchasing her stunning underwater photography prints here: OceanGirlElla Store

A Day in the Life of Ocean Girl Ella

Living on a tropical island means Ella rarely has a day away from the water. On dive-free days, she edits photos in her favorite cafes or spends time with friends. When she’s not scuba diving, she enjoys freediving and snorkeling—lighter ways to stay connected with the sea.

“Sometimes it’s nice to not be wearing all that heavy gear.”

If Ella could describe her connection to the ocean in one word, it would be:

“Peaceful. The ocean is where I feel calmest and most at peace. It’s my form of meditation and the place I most belong.”

Advice for Aspiring Ocean Lovers

Ella encourages anyone curious about underwater life to start small, stay consistent, and let the journey evolve naturally:

“Maybe start with getting your scuba qualifications—but you don’t need a big plan. Getting my divemaster was a good first step, and then everything else evolved from there. Opportunities appeared that I didn’t even know existed! If this is something you really want to do, commit fully, and results will follow.”

Oceanic Human: More Than a Title

Ella, our SI Ambassador, embodies the values we celebrate at Surface Interval:

💙 Living intentionally with the ocean at heart
💙 Respect for marine life and mindful exploration
💙 Dedication to skill, craft, and consistent growth
💙 A balance of adventure and stewardship

“We met Ella for the first time on our SI Experience in Komodo. Even before that, through her content, we could tell she’s a genuine person. When we finally met her, we made an instant friend. Even though we’ve grown up in different parts of the world, speak different languages, and come from different cultures, we recognized a soul that cares for the ocean as much as we do.”– Mel, Surface Interval Co-founder 

Surface Interval is an India-based ocean lifestyle brand created by ocean lovers for ocean lovers. We make sustainable, ethical apparel for those who live for salty air, sunshine, and meaningful connection.

Every piece we create is made with planet-first values, ethical manufacturing, and plastic-free packaging, and every purchase supports coral reef restoration in partnership with Livingseas Foundation, Bali.

We’re more than a brand—we’re a movement, a community of oceanic humans who explore, protect, and share the magic of the sea.