“Live the photos, then make the photos. Photos are always better when they come from a place of authenticity and appreciation.”

Devyn Galindo perfectly embodies the image of a free spirited photographer. Devyn grew up as a nomad, living all over America. She’s currently based in New York. When she was handed her first slr camera at the age of fourteen, photography immediately became her biggest passion and she knew photography will be her future profession because for her, it’s a medium that lets her explore all her creative ideas. She’s a traveler at heart that loves seeing amazing style in the streets, which she so strongly captures with the magic of film developing. She brings a different kind of eye to fashion photography, showing her personality and vision in everything she does.

Interview by Eva Davidova

List five words that describe your character.

Loyal, Determined, Observant, Kind, Lover

What first drew you to photography – and how did you discover it?

Skateboarding… we used to roam around looking for secret spots in the city where we could just skate and chill. I started bringing a camera and filming my friends doing weird tricks and it kind of evolved from there.  After my first time in the darkroom, I was hooked.

What do you love the most about what you do and why?

I get to share my POV with the world. So that’s pretty cool. I also love how accessible photography is for everyone. Some people in the industry are upset about that, but I think it’s a blessing that so many people have access to great cameras at relatively inexpensive prices. It’s no longer and exclusive ‘boys’ club.

If I say “photography” your reply will be?

Live the photos, then make the photos. Photos are always better when they come from a place of authenticity and appreciation.

Favorite subjects to shoot and why?

People that have soul. People that defy stereotypes. People doing their own thing. Girly boys, boyish girls and everything in between.

What do you want your viewers to take away from your work? 

I want viewers to see women represented in a different way than you typically see, tough and soft all at once. I hope viewers are excited for a change. Promoting diversity and people of color through casting is also very important to me.

What camera(s) do you use? 

Pentax 67, Nikon F5, Contax T2, Canon 5D Mark iii, Fuji x100

A good photograph has to… 

be original!

You currently live in Los Angeles. What do you enjoy most about your neighborhood. And where can we find you on a Friday night? 

I actually have being living in New York for almost 2 years. Although LA is home to me and I’m there often. Friday night in New York, you’ll find me at Lil Frankie’s in the LES eating the best banana split in the city (it’s a true work of art) and sipping tequila. Friday night in LA, you’ll find me at my BFF’s watching Broad City. Or dancing at The Catch One.

What’s your song of the week? 

Still on Trap Queen – Fetty Wap, 4 weeks running.

Any tattoo’s? What do they mean?

Most recent, I tatted a little boxer on my forearm for my grandfather who used to box. I also got a lavender sprig with my two close friends. I’m a sensitive fighter I suppose.  

As a child you always wanted to be?

Playing sports, skateboarding, escaping…

What, besides photography drives your interest?

I have a deep love for music. If I wasn’t a photographer I would def be a musician or a producer. Everyone on set knows me as ‘DJ No Request’. Haha

Where do you see yourself in the future?

Opening up a creative space to support the queer youth of color. And creating books!

Three things on your bucket-list right now; 

I’d like to do a shoot in phosphorescent water.

I want to learn to play an instrument, maybe the drums then guitar.

Make a book!

Words to live by;

Educate yourself, travel often.

devyngalindo.com