Arden Arden: “Photography connects me to the essential”

At Locationow, we believe that behind every great project there’s a place with a story… and someone with a vision. That’s why we regularly talk to artists who inspire us, who turn the world into their studio, and who understand the value of a location beyond its visual appeal.

In this edition, we speak with Ana Prado, known artistically as Arden Arden, a photographer who lives between New York and Madrid. Her perspective—deeply free, queer, and poetic—has shaped intimate portraits, evocative editorials, and memorable campaigns. We talked about her collaboration with Troye Sivan, the importance of spaces in her creative process, and those personal projects that keep her artistic essence alive.

Two Cities, One Expanding Vision

We know you’ve been living between New York and Madrid lately… What has that experience been like for you as a photographer? What does each city bring to you creatively?

I try to take advantage of all the creative opportunities both cities offer. Both places are buzzing. There’s always something going on. I connect with artists, attend exhibitions, museums, openings… I try to collaborate with different creatives and grow my career by letting myself be inspired by everything that’s happening.

What’s the first thing you look for in a location when preparing for a photo shoot?
The first thing I look for is all the creative possibilities it can offer me and how it can contribute to the concept.

Do you get directly involved in the location scouting, or do you work with a team?
I get directly involved, but I like working with people who specialize in it.

Minimalism and Brutalism: The Trends Setting the Pace

Is there a particular type or style of location that seems to be in higher demand lately in the photography world?
I think brutalist and minimalist locations.

Is there a location you remember with particular fondness?
The last location where I shot a music video in Madrid: an old paper factory that still had the machinery and offices intact.

“Working with Troye Sivan was a dream come true”

Let’s talk about one of your best-known works: What was the experience like working with Troye Sivan?
The experience was a dream come true. He’s one of the artists I admire most, and being able to tour with him has been a privilege.

You also directed a project for Guitarricadelafuente, which had a super curated aesthetic that really feels like your own. How do you feel working in audiovisual compared to photography? Does each medium offer or demand something different?
With audiovisual work, I feel like my images come to life and it allows me, perhaps, to dive deeper into the project’s narrative.

Your work has a very present, subtle yet powerful queer lens. How does that influence what you choose to tell through your photos?
It influences what I want to express because I’m a queer person, and photography/video has allowed me to meet queer people and incredibly powerful stories. I want to tell all the strength, struggle, and beauty of the community.

Going back to your personal projects, is there one that you consider especially meaningful?
I remember a project published in i-D called Seres with great affection. I shot it during the early days of the pandemic, just when we were allowed to go out and gather again.

“SERES” Project by Arden Arden for i-D Spain

Where do you see yourself in a few years? Do you still have a camera in hand, or do you see yourself exploring other paths?
I hope to always have a camera in hand, exploring the infinite paths it constantly takes me down.

At Locationow, we offer locations for photo shoots for editorials, film shoots, commercials, music videos, or branded content. Locationow specializes in everything you need for your location production. We are fixers and location managers, offering tailored services for any budget and scale.
Also, discover more content like this on our blog and follow us on our social media.