Mateo Negrete

Born in Northern California and raised as a Coast Guard military brat, Mateo's life has always revolved around the sea. Moving frequently, he called many coastal towns home, each instilling a deeper connection to the ocean's beauty and unpredictability. His journey as a photographer began in the fast-paced world of live music, where he worked as a touring and in-house concert photographer. In these dynamic environments—where subjects, lighting, and timing were entirely out of his control—Mateo developed an instinct for capturing fleeting, perfect moments.

This skill translated seamlessly into his travels, where he documents the natural world with the same precision and passion, capturing scenes that feel both timeless and untouched. Now based in San Francisco, Mateo combines his lifelong love for the ocean and his creative vision through La Mar Collective, curating fine art photography that reflects the power, freedom, and raw beauty of life by the sea.