Daniel Varela
Daniel Varela
Daniel Varela (byline appears as D.A. Varela) is a staff photojournalist at The Miami Herald, where he has worked for over six years covering a wide range of stories—from community features to major national events. As part of the newsroom team awarded the Pulitzer Prize for coverage of the Surfside condo collapse, his work has helped shape public understanding of pivotal moments. In 2022, he was named Best Herald Photographer by Miami New Times. His imagery has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, television news programs, and even on the walls of the Miami Heat’s locker room.
His client list spans from local families to major organizations such as FIBA, Carnival Cruise Line, NCAA, Inter Miami, Florida State University, and the University of Miami. His subjects have included U.S. presidents, professional athletes, celebrities, and everyday citizens whose stories needed to be told. He’s covered the NBA Finals, presidential campaign trails, and breaking news events, including active shooting scenes.
A love of photography began in childhood but became a serious pursuit during college at Florida State University, where he started shooting for the student newspaper, The FSView. Alongside his professional work, he is deeply committed to education and service—working as a substitute teacher at Ransom Everglades High School and volunteering with Exchange for Change, a nonprofit that offers writing and communication courses to incarcerated students in South Florida.
An avid scuba diver, he also explores underwater photography, always seeking new ways to blend art, storytelling, and human connection. Teaching photography remains one of his greatest joys, especially sharing the craft with everyday people eager to learn how to see the world through a new lens.
Kalinda Stephenson
Theo LOVED the workshop! Danny, you were amazing with him and I’m so impressed at how well you were able to keep his attention! The only other thing that can keep his attention that long is an iPad!!
Danny, would Sunday morning work if possible? Theo isn’t able to travel on Friday night-Saturday night due to Shabbat observance. If not, we can try to find another day. It looks like the Miami Beach Botanical garden is open 9-5.
Thank you!