An Interview with RAW Sydney Photographer of the Year 2013: Daniela Raiti

Sydney-based photographer Daniela Raiti seeks to portray the raw, real-life emotions of her subjects through her daring and truly inspiring images. As a true creative spirit, Daniela’s ability to capture the often-overlooked beauty and splendour of everyday moments is what sets her apart in this highly competitive industry.
Each series that Daniela produces possess its own unique and alluring quality, acting as a clear display of this photographer’s undeniable talent. In her own words, Daniela states, “I don’t photograph subjects, I photograph the way they make me feel.” Her images are gripping, fearless and utterly spectacular, cleverly utilizing light and location to create photographs that are nothing short of superb. 
We are incredibly proud to present Daniela to you all as RAW Sydney’s Photographer of the Year for 2013, a title this talented woman definitely deserves. Whim recently chatted to the photographer-of-the-moment to congratulate her on her recent RAW Sydney success, and to ask her all about her love of photography:



Q: Congratulations on winning first place in the photography category! Please tell us, what have you loved the most about your RAW Sydney experience?    
A: Thank you! I have loved the experience of being a part of RAW, the opportunity to have a platform for my work to be exposed and supported through a creative community is amazing, I have met so many different creatives through RAW who I have collaborated with, and will continue to do so.

Q: What was your initial reaction when you heard the news that you would go on to represent Sydney in your category? 
A: I was over the moon! It's such an achievement and am so humbled that I am representing Sydney! It is validating on my work.

Q: When did you first discover your love of photography? 
A: My first creative love was writing which I did ever since I was a small child, in my early 20's I fell in love with photography and through a life-changing experience my way of healing was telling stories through photos, as people were inspired and an emotion was evoked from my photos I realised I had found my purpose.

Q: What inspires your creativity the most?  
A: I seek inspiration from all sorts of sources. I observe people in the street, I am inspired by other artists, I consider the gestures people use, or the colours they're wearing. It's about taking all the little everyday things and observing them with a critical eye; building up a scrapbook which I can draw from.

Q: What do you hope to achieve with your photography career in the near future – are there any exciting, upcoming plans that you would like to share with us? 
A: I would love to have a my own studio, as well as travelling the world photographing in obscure locations! I have completed my small business management certificate so I am working towards creating a life doing what I love and inspiring others to do so also.


Make sure you take a peek at Daniela's Facebook page and website for a glimpse into her full portfolio of magnificent images! You can also support emerging artists by 'liking' the RAW Sydney and RAW Australia Facebook pages.


- Lucinda

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