Portfolio Review: Nilladriz Captures Images of The Rap World

Nilladriz is only 20 years old, but he’s been able to capture moments that other photographers could only dream of. The New Jersey based photographer and director has prioritized capturing private moments from rap music’s most elusive individuals. His portfolio includes studio shots and backstage candids of rappers in action.

Nilla’s friendship with rappers, like Reggie Mills, has let him conduct photo shoots with some of the most famous faces in hip-hop. We got in touch with Nilladriz about his images. Check out our Portfolio Review: 20-Year-Old Photographer Nilladriz Shares Rare Photos of Tekashi 69, Roddy Rich, Smokepurpp, and More.

1. Roddy Rich

“I met Roddy in studio session in New York two summers ago. I was with an A&R named Cheddar Jack who was friends with his camp, and we ended up stopping by their studio session. I remember Roddy telling his life journey to everyone in the studio and how he overcame the obstacles he was faced with to get to where he was in that moment. He had just dropped “Die Young” and was still a relatively small artist in the game. I spent the whole time listening to him and only took one picture of him on the way out. Till this day he’s one of the most intelligent and humble artists I’ve ever met.”

2. Smokepurpp & Reggie Mills

“This next picture is actually one of my favorite pictures. This was taken the first day I ever met Reggie and from that day moving forward is where my life changed. I made a lot of connections from those early days in New York City with Reggie. ”

3. Desto Dubb

“This picture was taken on a construction site in Manhattan, New York. (Yes, we got permission) Desto is a lot of fun to shoot, he has a great personality and he’s very friendly.”

4. Blackway

“This picture was taken moments before Blackway took the stage at SOB’S New York.”

5. Tekashi 69

“I took this at Treyway Entertainment’s first pop-up shop in Lower EastSide, Manhattan. This was weeks before 6ix9ine and members of Treyway were taken into custody.”

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