Daniel Mercado: Visionary Artist

Daniel Mercado is a visionary artist working across photography, acting, and modeling — telling stories that live between elegance, emotion, and identity. Born and raised in Harlem, with Brazilian and Puerto Rican roots, Daniel brings a rich cultural lens to everything he creates. He is driven by curiosity, movement, and a love for storytelling in all forms. Whether in front of the lens or behind it, he travels often and creates with intention, seeking out the spaces where identity and feeling collide.

Photography

Daniel’s journey into photography began in 2022 as a personal hobby walking around the streets of New York with a film camera and a dream.That quickly evolved into a serious creative pursuit. By late 2023, he was shooting fashion editorials and conceptual portraits that explore intimacy, transformation, and emotional landscapes. His work often carries a cinematic quality — capturing subtle, lived-in moments that feel both personal and timeless.

Modeling

Daniel began his professional modeling career in 2019 with Spirit Models as his Mother agent and getting signed to New Icon that lifted his career to new heights, collaborating with designers and agencies that recognized his natural presence and visual sensitivity. With Brazilian and Puerto Rican heritage and a Harlem upbringing, he brings a layered cultural perspective to his work. His modeling often intersects identity and expression, contributing to stories that challenge norms while embracing beauty and depth.

Acting

In 2022, Daniel expanded into acting, studying at the T. Schreiber Studio in New York. There, he developed his ability to express nuance and emotional range on screen. Since then, he has appeared in short films and continues to work on independent projects. His approach to performance is rooted in movement, sensitivity, and a deep connection to character and story.