about marcela

Hi! My name is Marcela. I was born, raised, and am based in Los Angeles, California.

I’m a photographer and outdoor educator with a background in conservation and sustainability. My work focuses on expanding access to the outdoors, advancing climate literacy, and building pathways for students and communities historically excluded from natural spaces.

Much of my work happens outside; in mountains, on the ocean, and in the landscapes that shape how we understand the world around us.

Whether teaching, learning, or documenting, my work is rooted in the belief that shared experiences outdoors can reshape how we see ourselves, each other, and the places we inhabit. The work you see on this site reflects collaborations, field experiences, and ongoing learning shaped by the communities and landscapes I’m fortunate to be part of.

philosophy

Nature is both my classroom and my place of reset. I believe that time spent in wild places builds not only knowledge, but also confidence, resilience, and community.

I care deeply about developing the competence and judgment required to move safely in dynamic environments. Technical skills, mentorship, and humility in the outdoors are essential to responsible leadership.

Wild spaces should reflect the diversity of the communities they overlook. Access to land, movement, and mentorship should never be shaped by race, gender, or background. It is a privilege to model possibility for my students, for future guides, and for anyone who has ever questioned whether they belong outside.

practice

My work spans several interconnected areas:

Outdoor Education

Teaching students and emerging leaders through field-based learning and expedition environments.

Photography & Storytelling

Documenting people, landscapes, and the relationships between communities and the natural world.

Environmental Work

Supporting projects that advance conservation, climate awareness, and sustainable practices.

Field-Based Learning

Continuing to develop my own technical skills through training, expeditions, and collaboration with mentors and partners.