Salma Hayek Pinault was photographed by Ruven Afanador in Mexico

Salma Hayeck

SALMA HAYECK

Salma Hayek Pinault was photographed by Ruven Afanador in Mexico. Swimsuit by Johanna Ortiz. Necklace and body chain by Jacquie Aiche. / Ruven Afanador/Sports Illustrated

Featured Photographer / Ruven Afanador

Featured Photographer: Ruven Afanador

by Amanda Gabriele

Octuber 30, 2008

It’s really difficult for me to pick favorites when it comes to photographers. There are so many talented men and woman out there who make the art of fashion come to life. But I will tell you that Ruven Afanador has been a continuous favorite of mine throughout the years. His style is edgy, innovative and delectably provocative.

          Afanador has won the Trophee de la Mode for Best Photographer and has published two books. The first, Torero, sold out within a year. Shortly after, Sombra, a collection of male nudes, hit the bookshelves and coffee tables of admirers everywhere. Much of Afanador’s inspiration stems from the small Columbian town he grew up in. It was at this young age that he became an follower of Irving Penn’s work, an icon who still enlightens his own craft.

Afanador has shot for most major fashion magazines and has done ads for Nordstrom, J. Mendel, Neiman Marcus and Sephora. He shows celebrities in unusual lights and has photographed Mena Suvari, Tina Fey and Maggie Gyllenhaal.