Renell Medrano has been photographing the people of New York City for almost half of her life since she picked up a camera at 14. Now 27, she has worked for big-name editorial titles such as Vogue, as well as photographing everyone from Kendall Jenner to Jay-Z, Bad Bunny, and Tyler, the Creator. Her recent solo exhibition in London, PAMPARA, a “visual love letter” to the Dominican Republic, explored her roots. Her photos, whether they’re of locals or her cohort of famous friends, tell a story with cinematic warmth. The impetus behind Medrano’s intimate, colourful work is “being able to get connected to a complete stranger and finding their vulnerability”, and she’s mostly inspired by her home of New York City and her motherland of the Dominican Republic.

Now turning her attention to short films, Medrano wants to shoot the Bronx in a different light, spotlighting “the biggest influence within my work”. Ultimately, though, her biggest creative motivator is simple; she wants to “make art to make the world feel good”, and she’s been working hard to make that a reality, with photos that showcase genuine vulnerability and spontaneity.

How is your work unique to you?

Renell Medrano: It’s unique to me because it’s a reflection of what I feel. Growing up in the Bronx played a role, too. Not everything was so pretty, but I found beauty in the struggle and hustle of everyday life. 

What issues or causes are you passionate about?

Renell Medrano: I am passionate about seeking change in my community and my culture, as it’s ingrained in everything I do and what I stand for.

What creative or philanthropic project would you work on with a grant from the Dazed 100 Ideas Fund?

Renell Medrano: I would love to direct a short film about a young girl based on me growing up in the Bronx.