Dahlia Dandashi
Photographer / Photo Art Director / Community Event Programmer
New York, NY
Q What do you do?
“I would say I’m mostly a photographer, photo art director and community event producer/programmer.”
I love to be in the weeds of things and collaborating with people to make things happen though in any way, shape or form though.
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
I wouldn’t say I’ve followed a calculated path. Instead, I’ve let my gut guide me step by step, leading me to where I needed to be in each moment (that’s so corny but it’s true?) For instance, I took the LSAT but chose not to go to law school because, deep down, I knew it wasn’t the right fit for me and doing it for the plot wasn’t enough of an excuse. That said, half the time, I genuinely have no idea what I’m doing—but I’ve learned to trust the process!
In college, I studied journalism, thinking I wanted to write for publications. In reality, I just wanted to write sad girl poetry (which I still do!) After graduating, I quit my job to pursue freelance photography, social media, and production work. When I hit a wall creatively, I decided to apply to the 3-month content strategy program at Miami Ad School in New York. At the time, it felt like a natural next step into the world of advertising. I got accepted while visiting family in Lebanon, returned to Texas, packed up my life, and moved to New York within a few weeks.
After completing the program, I landed a role at 360i (now Dentsu Creative) as the first social content producer on the team. I worked on photoshoots for PCG brands and handled graphic design from home during the early COVID days (February 2020). Eventually, I joined Wieden+Kennedy as a Content Creator, where I spent over two years before being part of a layoff. That layoff, though daunting at the time, turned out to be a blessing in disguise. It led me to my current role as a Photo Editor at Pratt Institute, a position that aligns my professional skills with my creative passions.
Beyond my career, my love for community and art has always been a driving force. A few years ago, I felt inspired to create an exhibition series called Banat El Hara (Arabic for “women of the neighborhood”), a platform dedicated to highlighting Arab women artists. My goal was to build a space where Arab women could connect, share their work, and celebrate their stories. I brought a small team of like-minded women on board, and in 2023, we secured funding and partnered with the Arab Film and Media Institute as part of their Arab Women in the Arts showcase.
What started as a dream has grown into a three-day exhibition featuring art, music, food, and films — all created by Arab women. I oversee every aspect of the event, from curating the artists and selecting the venue to coordinating DJs, sponsors, and logistics with my team. It’s a lot of work, but I love to do it!
Q How do you stand out in your field?
I’m a third-culture kid who was lucky enough to travel the world and connect with my family across continents — this upbringing shaped my ability to adapt, communicate, and connect with all kinds of people because I had to. My Arab roots (my family is Lebanese and Syrian) ground me, while my international upbringing in Dubai gives me a more global lens on things. I was also born in Texas and spent my college and early career years between Austin and Houston, so I’m accustomed to navigating diverse environments. I know, it’s random.
As a self-taught photographer with limited space to work, I often transformed my apartment into a makeshift photo studio. This experience taught me to be scrappy, resourceful, and skilled at making things happen with whatever tools and space I had available.
Q What are you working on right now?
Filming a story about Arabic dishes for a friend’s short, laying the groundwork for my next photo/poetry zine, gearing up to plan the next Banat El Hara exhibition, and brainstorming new creative shoots to elevate my portfolio. I’m also manifesting a solo exhibition by the end of the year—fingers crossed!
Q What’s your style?
I’m obsessed with color — finding ways to capture bold colors and striking contrasts in direct sunlight is one of my favorite things to do. I love shooting outdoors, where light and color come alive. I’m a lizard!! This passion for color spills over into my personal style and what interior design I am drawn to as well.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
If I could expand my focus on one area more, it would be filmmaking. I’ve always been drawn to storytelling through motion and visuals. In the past, I also explored other creative outlets like acting and playing in a band and that shit is FUN. I’d love to dive deeper into spaces that allow me to experiment with different forms of creativity, especially those that combine visual storytelling, music, and performance.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
Finding consistent freelance work that really highlights my creative skills/abilities/perspective. In New York, it can be tough to land opportunities without the backing of an agent or a company, which makes standing out even harder.
On top of that, the general, current job market isn’t exactly forgiving for anyone. I also wish I had more time to play, experiment, and grow in my photography—it’s something that keeps landing at the bottom of my to-do list but feels so essential to the creative process!
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
I’d have them assist with setting up shoots -- it would be amazing to wake up in my free time and have my visions and concepts ready to bring to life. I’d also love help with applying for grants and securing funding for classes, workshops, and programs to further expand my skills and creative opportunities.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
Even now, I know so little...but what I can say with confidence is that what is meant for you will come in time.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
If I could speak with an expert to gain more insight, it would be about mentorship—how to find the right mentor and how to cultivate a meaningful relationship with one. I’m also torn about whether pursuing a master’s degree is the right path, especially considering the financial investment.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
I’m looking for opportunities that focus on community building and programming, as well as vibrant, quirky, and fun photo projects. I’d also love to get involved in film production, whether it’s helping to produce or contributing creatively to bring a vision to life.
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
My ideal collaboration is one that centers SWANA (South West Asian and North African) people, brands, or studios. I’m passionate about working with and uplifting creatives from the SWANA region to showcase that we are just as innovative, visionary, and talented as anyone else. ;)
I’d also love to take on a creative, fun fashion or editorial shoot—especially one that involves travel or interior design/architecture.
Q: What is your rate?
My rates vary depending on the scope of work, the client, and the timeline. If you’re a small brand, a business just starting out, or creating community-driven work, I’m happy to offer a discount. That said, I always consider the realities of working in New York City—travel time, equipment transport, and logistics are factors when determining pricing. If it’s an event, it starts at $200 an hour -- for projects or collaborations, just hit me up!
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
Hit my line at www.dahliadandashi-jpeg.com
Q Who is a creative you admire?
Damn, I have so many...but off the top of my head:
@aylamortada, @ramaduwaji, @sarahmelawad
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Read poetry, go to a museum, get lost on a walk!
This member profile was originally published in January 2025.