Photographer Craig Varjabedian is working with indigenous people around New Mexico to celebrate their past and their culture with the Native Light Photo Collaboration Project.
When you look at the portraits, however, you don’t see just the subject. You also get a glimpse of the bond they share with the photographer. After all, both of them have equal control of the end result. One takes care of what’s behind the frame — operating the camera — and the other is responsible for everything within it — choosing clothing, regalia, and other objects that are important to them.
This collaboration is precisely what allows the image to truly represent the person being in front of the lens.
More info: craigvarjabedian.com | Instagram (h/t mmm)
If you enjoy the Native Light Photo Collaboration Project, consider supporting it by purchasing its printed version
#1 Randale, Pow Wow Dancer, Comanche/Kiowa
Image source: Craig Varjabedian
#2 Diné Woman With Wedding Basket Earring
Image source: Craig Varjabedian
#3 Yanabah Moonsky (Sky Warrior), Diné
Image source: Craig Varjabedian
#4 Tsiguwaenu Ohuwa Munu (Turbulent Lightning Cloud), Tewa, Nambé Owingeh
Image source: Craig Varjabedian
#5 Chuugaa Hoewii (Redhawk), Tewa, Ohkay Owingeh
Image source: Craig Varjabedian
#6 Tanysha With Flowers In Her Hair, Keres, Kewa Pueblo
Image source: Craig Varjabedian
#7 Larry, Eagle Dancer, Meskwaki
Image source: Craig Varjabedian
#8 In The Belly Of The Bear (After A Photograph By Edward S. Curtis), Rodrigo, Chickasaw
Image source: Craig Varjabedian
#9 Thamu Tsan (The Sunrise), Tewa, Nambé Owingeh
Image source: Craig Varjabedian
#10 Elvin, Cree
Image source: Craig Varjabedian
#11 Marlene (To’dikozhi) And Jayme (Wahinkpe Wakan), Navajo And Lakota
Image source: Craig Varjabedian
#12 Calvert, Plains Dance Regalia, Diné
Image source: Craig Varjabedian
#13 Povi T’say (Yellowflower), Tewa, Ohkay Owingeh
Image source: Craig Varjabedian
#14 Elk Deer, Two Term Tribal Governor, Taos Pueblo
Image source: Craig Varjabedian
#15 Diné Tsoii (Yellowman), Diné
Image source: Craig Varjabedian
#16 Chris, Deer Dance Regalia, Tewa, Ohkay Owingeh
Image source: Craig Varjabedian
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