Petra Collins is a Canadian photographer, artist, and director based in Toronto. She is best known for her dreamy, surrealist images that explore themes of femininity, sexuality, and youth culture.
Collins was born in Toronto in 1992 to Hungarian parents. She began taking photographs at the age of 12 and was soon featured in publications such as Vice Magazine and Dazed & Confused. In 2012, she was chosen as one of the top 30 photographers under 30 by Photo District News.
In 2013, Collins released her first book titled Babe which featured her photography and writing about female identity. The book was widely praised for its honest portrayal of young women's lives.
Collins has since gone on to direct music videos for artists such as Solange Knowles and Carly Rae Jepsen. She has also collaborated with brands such as Adidas, Nike, and Urban Outfitters on campaigns that feature her signature aesthetic. Her work has been exhibited in galleries around the world including the Museum of Modern Art in New York City and the Tate Modern in London.
In addition to her photography career, Collins is an advocate for body positivity and self-love. She has spoken out against photoshopping images to make them more "perfect" and encourages people to embrace their natural beauty instead.