Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ingridi Viruel. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Ingridi, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.
Following in my mother’s footsteps, I got my first camera at the age of 12. From that moment, I began exploring various photographic techniques, ranging from experimental approaches to alternative processes. I’ve always believed that one should make a photograph, not simply take one. Growing up and diving myself more in art, I was captivated by the idea of creating something on film. In 2021, I took this passion further by shooting my first roll of 16mm; the analog process fascinates me. I think there will never be something so special like working with film. The digital world can be a bit corrupted, where as with film it makes me stop in time and analyze what I am capturing detailed, before I press the shutter. You just have one chance and no room for mistakes. Because of course- film is expensive, so every single frame matters. Shooting an entire editorial on film is a different pace and approach than shooting on digital. I often like to challenge myself and create something more concrete and organic. My work now spans from portraiture, fashion photography, and experimental filmmaking .
Ingridi, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
My name is Ingridi Viruel, I’m a Brazilian photographer and director based in New York City. For years, I have been driven by a deep passion for capturing and immortalizing moments. Throughout my career, I have collaborated with brands, actors, bands, among others; always striving to create a unique vision and convey a powerful message tailored to each concept. My work is deeply inspired by the Avant-Garde movement and experimental cinema, blending historical influences with contemporary storytelling. I aim to weave a dialogue between life and myth, where reality merges with the cinematic. Through symbolic elements, I seek to craft images that feel timeless, evocative, and transformative, guiding viewers toward a deeper truth. Above all, I am committed to influencing people to embrace and express their authentic selves in front of my lens. My ultimate goal will always be to inspire confidence and creativity.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
As a teenager immersed in theater, I developed a deep appreciation for art history and cinema. I think learning about the term “catharsis” really awoke something in me (with the development of theater in the 17th century, the idea was that anyone could stop for a moment in their daily lives to get away from their problems and preoccupations to go watch a play. Greek philosopher Aristotle identified the emotional response of the audience as an essential component of drama. He referred to this emotional process as ‘catharsis’.) This passion of expression grew further and further until I moved to NYC at 19 years old. I connected with other artists, and slowly found my place in this city that welcomed me so warmly. I think the driving force behind my creative journey is the profound connection I have developed with time and its influence on our lives. Photography allows me to pause time, preserving moments I wish to keep for eternity and providing a space to reflect on how far I’ve come. Through experimentation and exploration, I strive to create images that are not merely photographs but also an important mark in this turbulent time to be alive in this planet.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
I think the most important thing to me besides art- is connectivity. I love meeting new people. It was when I moved to NYC that I got to discover how limitless connection is. It is an overwhelming city in the creative field, and I love that energy more than anything. I am passionate about forming meaningful relationships, building a sense of community, and connecting with people who share similar values and aspirations. There is something incredibly fulfilling about exchanging ideas, collaborating on projects, and supporting one another’s growth in a shared creative journey. Moving to the city was transformative for me in this regard. There is an almost electric sense of possibility- whether it’s meeting someone who challenges your perspective, collaborating on a groundbreaking project, or simply sharing an idea that sparks something unexpected. I thrive in that dynamic environment. For me, the synergy between art and human connection is where the most exciting and meaningful work happens.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ingridviruel.com
- Instagram: ingridiviruel
Image Credits
Ingridi Viruel
BTS image by Brian Costa
Artist Image by Cristiane Viruel