Image via Complex Original
Photographer Raven Varona is in all the places you wish you could be—the front row of hip-hop shows, admiring inspiring architecture, and hanging out with beautiful women. Whether getting incredible photos of Rick Ross and Nicki Minaj or her close friends, Raven does it all with confidence and in vivid color. And she's definitely going places.
Get to know her favorite photos in her own words in our latest Portfolio Review and follow her on Instagram for updates.
“Normally when I shoot concerts or shows, I'm in the pit, very up close. But for this Kanye show I wanted to shoot and enjoy it as a fan. I love that P.O.V., and it always brings me back to a good place.”
“This is a shot from a series I did called 'Body & Sole.' I love exploring different ways to express the dichotomy of sporty and sexy. "
“A good friend of mine, model/actress, Chelsea Ciara, in her room.”
“My current favorite photo from a series I'm working on called 'SAY CHEE$E,' a photo archive documenting the smiles in hip-hop culture. This one is of Rick Ross.”
“Drake, Wayne, and Nicki at Summer Jam 2014.”
“Wayne at Summer Jam 2014, my first time seeing him live and one of my favorite performance shots I've taken.”
“This is from a series I did with Yaris Sanchez entitled 'Never the Girl Next Door.' The series was used for my first photo exhibit held at Apt 78.”
“The headpiece and her expression really make this a favorite. I think it shows a different side to her.”
“I think I was 19 when I shot this. It was the beginning of me realizing that this was something I wanted to pursue and not just a hobby.”
“This was a on a trip home from Miami. I fall in love with the sky every time I fly for reasons like this.”
“I never went to church growing up, but I am completely obsessed with the architecture and design.”
“The first wedding I attended, a childhood friend of mine. Her dress to this day is my favorite.”
“Tanning on the fire escape.”
