Matias Ardila is a photographer, filmmaker, and visual artist, born in Guayaquil, Ecuador and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana. He is currently pursuing a BFA in Advertising Photography at the Rochester Institute of Technology.
Specializing in portraiture, Ardila excels at collaboration, working closely with models to create images that are both impactful and unforgettable. He approaches photography as if he were directing a film—carefully building sets, designing lighting, guiding subjects, and composing each frame to tell a story. Whether through a single photograph or a cinematic sequence, his goal is always to create work that resonates on a deeper level.
Known for his relentless work ethic and dedication, Ardila is committed to producing the strongest image possible, regardless of the challenge or assignment. Beyond portraits and film projects, he develops larger narrative-driven series that reflect his own experience as a Latino immigrant growing up in New Orleans.
For example, Armadillo Thoughts #2 reflects on the U.S. government’s response to Hurricane Katrina, while also drawing parallels to Che Guevara’s death and the 1973 Chilean coup that brought Pinochet to power. Armadillo Thoughts #3 unfolds as a murder mystery, layered with themes of Latino discrimination, urban gentrification, and the widening class divide in America.
Matias fun facts:
He was a background actor in the 2023 film "Bottoms."
He can do tricks on a chinese yoyo.
He Speaks spanish.
He loves movies probably more than anything else in the world. He Will talk to you about movies forever.
CONTACT:
iasardilaphoto@gmail.commatiasardilaphoto@gmail.com
504-232-2320
matiasardilaphoto@gmail.com
Ma
