Gabriela ‘Gabriela Gabrielaa’ is a distinguished Latina photographer whose work spans portraiture, street, and lifestyle photography. Her artistic journey began at the age of 11, when she first picked up a camera, igniting a passion that has fueled her prolific career in New York City for over 12 years. Gabriela earned her BFA in Photography from Pace University in 2014 and later honed her skills in advanced studio lighting at the International Center of Photography (ICP) in 2016. Her photography captures the vibrancy and depth of urban life, offering a unique perspective that resonates across diverse audiences.
Beyond her photographic practice, Gabriela’s multifaceted talents have led to collaborations with an array of brands and media companies. Her expertise extends into roles as an executive producer, consultant, curator, and community builder, showcasing her influence on the cultural landscape. Some of her notable clients include Red Bull North America, Honda, Governors Ball, Complex music, VICE Media, and New York Post.
In her recent ventures into the digital art and NFT space, Gabriela embraced the role of Creative Director at GuppyNFT, an agency dedicated to empowering innovative artists in both the Web3 and fine art worlds. She also hosts "NFTs en Español," a weekly Spanish-speaking Twitter Space that unites Latinx and Hispanx communities globally, fostering connections among artists, collectors, and enthusiasts.
Gabriela's work has been featured in prominent collections, including the International Women’s Day collection on Nifty Gateway, where her evocative portrait "Fearless Girl" was showcased. Her evolving practice bridges traditional fine art with emerging digital mediums, positioning her as a dynamic force within the contemporary art world
In her upcoming release on SuperRare, Gabriela presents Un Dia Normal, a collection of four new artworks that romanticize the experience of a busy day in the city, inviting viewers to slow down and see urban life through a poetic lens. Known for her positive approach to life’s encounters, Gabriela captures the beauty in everyday moments, offering an upbeat perspective that shines through her photography.
This collection is set against the backdrop of Tokyo and Osaka, two cinematic cities rich with history and mystery. Through her lens, Gabriela explores vibrant streets and hidden corners, finding characters along the way who bring these bustling environments to life.
This artwork will be available on SuperRare September 24th
"It was my dream to visit Asia for many years. In 2019 I finally saved up enough money to go to Japan for the first time and every year since I have been exploring the country more and more. In May 2023, I bought a rail pass and explored all around Japan with my camera and my friends. I found myself finding many different characters that brought me through busy streets and lost corners. Japan is such a vibrant place with such rich history. It is easy to lose oneself in the mystery of this place. This collection takes place in Tokyo and Osaka, a journey along two very exciting and cinematic cities."
- Gabriela
Paloma: Your journey with photography began at a young age. Can you share the moment you first felt connected to the medium, and how that early passion shaped your artistic vision?
Gabriela: My connection to photography began when I was about five years old. My mother, always with a camera in hand, had a way of bringing joy into every room she entered. Watching her capture moments throughout my childhood sparked something in me. By the age of eleven, I had my own DSLR, and people were already hiring me for portraits and family shoots. In high school, I had the privilege of studying with talented photographers, which further fueled my passion. After earning my BFA in photography and studying business and marketing, I began freelancing in NYC and have been doing so since 2016.
In terms of my stylistic pursuits and the direction of my work, I was initially drawn to portraiture and live music, shooting at Red Bull events and later branching into commercial work for agencies. However, these days, I find myself more and more focused on directing shoots specifically for artists and musicians. My curiosity for fine art photography and photojournalism has taken me across the globe, allowing me to connect with incredible people and share their stories—something I consider an absolute privilege.
Paloma: How has your background as a photographer influenced your work, particularly in capturing the vibrancy and depth of urban life?
Gabriela: As a child, I often found myself lost in daydreams—a habit that continues to shape my work and ambitions today. Growing up with limited access to new places, it was first through discovering the vibrant landscapes throughout Colombia that initially fueled a joy and sparked a deeply rooted desire within me to explore more of the world. It is because of these memories and experiences throughout my upbringing that evoked a desire to not only live out these dreams of seeing the world but in sharing them with others who might too be daydreaming of their moment to live them firsthand.
I’ve always loved being an observer, unnoticed in the midst of a bustling, vibrant place. The music, the sounds, the textures, and the smells—all of these elements captivate me. It is through my photography that I aim to bring those sensations to life. Having my camera with me constantly has helped me evolve as a storyteller, allowing me to lose myself in the narrative I’m trying to convey.
Paloma: Can you describe your creative process when conceptualizing a new project? How do you balance spontaneity with the structured aspects of photography?
Gabriela: I’m constantly working on about 10 different series, always adding new elements when I’m photographing new cities or faces. My creative process is centered around how I see the world, but I also like to inject a bit of humor into my work, which keeps my creativity flowing in unexpected ways. While I try to plan my trips and shooting sessions, there are always elements—like the weather—that can surprise me and remain unpredictable. Rain or other less-than-ideal conditions often make for more interesting stories, and I love observing how people navigate their day in different settings. I’m fortunate to shoot with a weather-sealed Sony camera, so rain or shine, I’m ready for whatever the day brings.
When I’m out on location or in the studio, I try not to overshoot. I prefer to channel my energy into the moment rather than rely heavily on post-production. On a typical outing, I might shoot anywhere from 400 to 800 photos, but if I’m out all day, that number can climb to around 6,000. I embrace spontaneity, but I also make sure to do thorough research before I go out. Once I’ve selected a few locations, I’ll revisit the same spots multiple times—early mornings and at sunset—sometimes 3, 4, or even 5 times. Capturing the perfect shot requires patience, and I’m always willing to wait for the right moment to unfold in front of me.
Paloma: What challenges have you faced as a photographer in New York City, and how have they influenced your work?
Gabriela: I moved to NYC at just 16, and I never looked back. Even before I arrived, I knew it would be tough to survive as an artist, but I was ready for the challenge—I embraced it. New York has a way of testing you, both as an individual and as an artist. There are countless obstacles that can bring you down or make you question your path. However, one of the most important lessons I’ve learned over the past decade is that if you truly want your art to grow, be seen, and tell your story, these challenges are essential. They push you to where you need to be.
When I first moved here, I was mostly comfortable shooting indoors or on set locations. The idea of running around the streets with expensive gear felt intimidating. But over time, as I got to know the city and connected with incredible street photographers, I gained the confidence to take my gear outside and do what I love. The city became less of an obstacle and more of a collaborator in my work.
Paloma: You’ve collaborated with numerous high-profile brands and media companies. How do you maintain your artistic integrity while working on commercial projects? What have been some of the biggest learnings you have taken away from working on both commercial and personal projects?
Gabriela: Ohh I love this question! Early in my career, I found myself adapting my style to meet the expectations of commercial brands, which at times frustrated me because the work didn’t feel authentic or reflective of my true personality. However, this challenge pushed me to explore different styles, which ultimately helped me discover my own voice as an artist. Looking back, I’m grateful I started out working with agencies and big brands—it taught me so much. It was through these experiences that have given me the confidence to advocate for my vision.
“Now I am able to use these experiences to advocate for myself and my vision” - Gabriela
While I love working with teams of talented artists, I often find myself craving the freedom to go solo and dive into personal projects. There’s nothing more fulfilling than dedicating time to bring your own dreams to life. It’s a powerful reminder that, amid commercial work, prioritizing your own creative vision is essential for personal growth.
Paloma: As leading female voice in this space, what would you say are some themes or important narratives you hope to share via your work or with other women looking to make a name for themselves in art or in the commercial scene
Gabriela: It took time for me to find my voice. Whenever I spoke up, I often felt like I was being shut down—almost as if others were intimidated by the power of my story. Even at my lowest points, I kept fighting. There were times when I felt like the only one in the room, but I continued to show up until there were more voices like mine. Being part of a small percentage of women artists of color can be incredibly challenging.
“But I truly do believe that if we keep showing up for one another, loud and proud, we can become an unstoppable force” - Gabriela
It’s about resilience, community, and making sure our stories are heard, not just for ourselves but for the generations of women artists who will follow.
Paloma: Looking at this particular body of work can you speak to how it came together and the shooting process? What led you to this particular shoot in terms of location and the subjects we see portrayed.
Gabriela: In this particular body of work titled Un Dia Normal, I wanted to romanticize what a busy day in a big city could feel like if you slowed down and viewed it through the lens of poetry. My focus was on capturing the beauty in everyday moments as I prefer to take a positive approach to life’s encounters. It is because of this that I hope to convey this upbeat emotion and perspective through my own photography.
My story begins with the routine of commuting in a high-stress environment, but the protagonist finds moments of peace and mindfulness in what could be considered the most mundane parts of the day. From there, we arrive at an ATM, where the fluctuation between the yen and the US dollar becomes a subtle reminder of the global economy we’re all a part of. Afterward, you use that yen to grab a meal from the best spot in the city. Are you alone, savoring the quiet, or are you surrounded by laughter and companionship?
The Yen is Down, 2024
On the way home, there's always a phone call. You make it a priority to enjoy a peaceful commute while chatting with someone who genuinely cares about your day. It's these simple, often overlooked pleasures that inspire the daydreams I try to bring to life in my work.
I'll call you on my way home, 2024
“It’s really life’s simple pleasures that we tend to take advantage of or forget that makes for wonderful day dreams.”
- Gabriela
Paloma: What draws you most to urban photography?
Gabriela: I love the freedom I feel when I’m roaming around to new and old places. The world is filled with one of a kind moments and it is my biggest passion to capture a few of them. I love the uncertainty of getting the shot you envision. A studio can often feel static and it's harder to achieve the look or emotion you are going for. Whereas outside the world offers endless opportunities to capture a display of raw and real emotion which to me is something that is so so special to encounter.
This spontaneity is what excites me and fuels my love for capturing the day-to-day, often overlooked, moments that make up people’s lives. What may seem ordinary to some can feel extraordinary to others—especially someone in a different part of the world. By highlighting these seemingly mundane aspects of life, I hope to offer a new perspective and inspire others to daydream or reflect on their own experiences. Documenting the everyday is essential. Without it, we rob the past, the present, and the future of our current realities. Sharing these moments, whether with an audience in another country or with future generations, is something I deeply value.
Paloma: What are some influences that inspire you whether it be other photographers or artists generally speaking?
Gabriela: My mother, Ximena, was my first inspiration. She had this incredible ability to bring fresh joy to every room she entered with her camera, and that really stuck with me.
“One of the first female photographers who truly influenced me was Sally Mann. I was captivated by her whimsical perspective on life—how she made her simple, everyday moments and family life feel monumental.”
- Gabriela
Preparatory Photograph for Candy Cigarette, ca. 1989
Her ability to see beauty in the little things and turn them into timeless art was remarkable. I also admired her rich black-and-white prints and how she developed everything herself. Since then, my list of influences has grown tremendously—there are far too many photographers and artists who inspire me on a daily basis.
Frida Kahlo is another huge influence. I admire her deep pride in her country and how she embraced the human experience in all its complexity. She found beauty in life's darkness and imperfections, something I strive to reflect in my own work as well.
Ultimately, I’m most inspired by artists who are completely devoted to their craft—those who will pour everything they have into a project, not for profit, but for the pure joy of sharing it with others. To me, it's important to maintain a diverse and inclusive bank of inspiration so that I can continue to inspire the world through my lens for as long as possible.
See more of Gabriela's available work with SuperRare here.