Do you ever meet someone and realize at that moment that they are going to do big things? That’s how I feel about Rŷanna Allen. When you see her photography, it seems like something you would see in the glossy pages of Vogue. The fact that she’s only 22 and already this mind-blowingly talented is inspiring. I have no doubt she’s destined for big things. I’m excited for you to meet Rŷanna and get to know her incredible work. Let’s get into the interview.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and what you do?

My name is Rŷanna Allen. I’m 22 years old and I’m a London-based photographer with experience in creative direction. I really enjoy traveling and enjoy using my own firsthand experiences as inspiration.

Your photography is incredible. How did you get started?

Thank you so much! My mum is a creative person and always encouraged me to pursue what I was passionate about. I started taking photographs of family and friends every opportunity I could in my teenage years and my passion grew from there.

images from the series “Allure” styled and photographed by Rŷanna

How would you describe your style of photography?

I feel like my style would probably be the fact that I always use similar lighting setups so it affects the result of my image. I also really enjoy using specific color palettes within my work at the moment such as pinks, browns and creams.

In a world of smartphones, what do you love about the art of photography?

I love the fact that we have so much access to imagery so it’s a great source of inspiration. I enjoy seeing how other people work and different projects that people are involved in.

What does a typical day look like for you?

I normally wake up around midday because of my weird sleeping pattern and my day would start from there. I try my best to do research for my personal projects, watch a bit of anime, cook dinner and end my day with a podcast.

images from the series “Allure” styled and photographed by Rŷanna

Where do you find creative energy? What inspires you?

I definitely surround myself with a lot of creative people that constantly are pushing themselves creatively. Seeing that is such a motivation, especially when it’s with different fields in the creative industry. My daily source of inspiration is definitely Pinterest and Instagram—sometimes I can spend hours on it at a time!

Are you currently listening to any podcasts or music on repeat?

At the moment, I’ve been listening to Lovelyti’s podcasts and I’ve been listening to a lot of soca music and dancehall recently.

What are your all-time favorite, must-read books?

I love Outwitting the Devil.

When do you feel your most beautiful?

I feel most beautiful when I’ve done my hair, my eyebrows are threaded and I have a fresh face.

What beauty products do you always repurchase?

I absolutely love Fenty Beauty’s gloss bomb Fu$$y!

Are you a morning person or a night owl?

I’m definitely a night owl.

images from the series “Allure” styled and photographed by Rŷanna

Do you have any routines or rituals that you swear by?

I would say my skincare routine is definitely something I stick to. I double-cleanse my face, first with an oil-based cleanser and then a water-based. I then use a toner, followed by a hyaluronic acid as a serum. I finish my skincare routine with a moisturizer/night cream.

Are there any causes or movements that you’re particularly passionate about?

I will always, wholeheartedly support Black Lives Matter. The injustices that the black community have faced will always be a topic I hold dear to my heart and it is important to be vocalized. Black lives are not being protected and must be protected at all costs. The police have proven time and time again how little they value Black lives. It needs to change. As a Black woman I am, and always will be proud of my blackness.