Rising Stars: Meet Dra of Los Angeles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Dra.

Dra, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’m a first-generation Korean-American. Son of Hong Joo Ra and Eun Hyung Chong. And brother to Esther and Sarah Ra.

My story started with skateboarding. That was my first real outlet. A culture built on creativity, freedom, and the idea that there are no rules. It taught me how to fall, how to get back up. I learned what obsession was.

That perspective and obsession translated into photography, which became my next outlet and where I’m at today. Magazines like Thrasher and Transworld inspired me to look into imagery and the story behind it.

It wasn’t about the tricks or the clothes. It was about the emotion. Energy. The environment. That’s what made me pick up a camera.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Definitely wasn’t easy. Growing up in an Asian household, pursuing a creative path was often discouraged. As a child, you’re told to become a doctor, lawyer, or teacher, but that never felt right to me. Despite the doubts and arguments with my parents, I chose to follow what I truly felt called to do. Like everyone else out here, I’ve got my own ups and downs. There were moments I’d be excited for a job, thinking something was about to happen. Then suddenly, no replies, no emails, just silence. That stuff can mess with your head. But I’ve learned to keep it moving and stay present.

Still, I’m grateful for everything that’s gotten me to this point. Going to ArtCenter to study photography was a big part of it. I was lucky to have mentors and classmates from all kinds of backgrounds and people who shared the same love for this craft. And my friends back home in Valencia? They helped me find what I really wanted to chase. That support means everything.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I work across a range of different areas. From fine art, editorial, and fashion photography to product and sports. I like to think of myself as someone who is open to exploring different lanes, but my true passion lies in clothing and editorial work.

I’m proud of a lot of moments throughout my career so far. I’ve been fortunate enough to work on set with clients like Flaunt Magazine, Wonderland, Lucid Monday, Bella Poarch, Revengexstorm, and Korean rapper REDDY. Every experience has been a step forward, and I’m genuinely grateful for all of it.

My style is best described as edgy, bold, and timeless. I’m drawn to the process of collaboration. Building ideas together and bringing a shared vision to life. I love experimenting with looks, locations, and lighting to create a mood. I’m always exploring new ways to distort, manipulate, and reframe perspective. Whether that is through color, motion, or composition.

At the end of the day, my goal is simple: to create images that feel alive, that leave an impression, and that evoke something raw and emotional. My versatility and perspective is not something you can replicate. That’s what makes my work stand out.

What’s next?
Currently at Mister Green, a lifestyle brand that embodies the culture of cannabis, minimalist design, and high-quality goods. Ranging from apparel and incense to ceramics and accessories…Come check us out at 3019 Rowena Ave Los Angeles, CA 90039… The heads will know

I’m hoping to keep growing there. Long term, I’d love the opportunity to work overseas, especially in places like Japan, Korea, and across Europe. I’m really drawn to the culture in those places and feel like there’s so much I haven’t seen yet.

But honestly, having my work on the cover of Dazed or i-D, and also being a lead creative/photographer for a luxury brand, would be a dream come true. That’s one of the goals I’m chasing.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://draswrld.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/draswrld
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-ra-776387246/

Image Credits
Portrait: Vin Stratton (@vin.stratton)