Renowned fashion photographer Marco Ovando is back, and this time, he’s turning the glam all the way up. With the release of Dolls Volume 3, Ovando delivers a dazzling, intimate, and high-fashion tribute to the queens who continue to redefine the art of drag.
The third volume in his acclaimed photo book series, Dolls Volume 3 builds upon the legacy of its predecessors by blending meticulously crafted portraits with raw, unfiltered energy. The book features some of the world’s most beloved drag royalty, from the glimmering stars of RuPaul’s Drag Race to the breakout queens of the Werq the World tour and Drag Race Live! in Las Vegas.
A Visual Evolution in Drag Storytelling
“This volume represents a real evolution,” Ovando shared. “The first two books were largely made up of archival work. Volume 3 was designed with intention, many of the shoots were created specifically for this release.”
Indeed, Dolls Volume 3 feels like more than just a photo collection, it’s a curated journey through the many layers of drag artistry. Split into four visually distinct chapters, “The Studio,” “The Shows,” “The BTS,” and “The Parties,” the book spans polished portraits, electric stage performances, intimate behind-the-scenes moments, and nightlife glamour.
From Legends to Rising Stars
The new volume brings back fan favorites like Violet Chachki and Aquaria in fresh, striking images, while introducing rising stars like Nymphia Wind and Lana Ja’rae. “This one still features legends,” Ovando said, “but I also wanted to include the new dolls pushing the boundaries of what drag can be.”
Photographed in surprising and often unconventional locations, including mall parking lots, gritty basements, and lush outdoor landscapes, the images balance editorial chic with theatrical grit. The result is a vivid snapshot of drag’s continued transformation from underground subculture to global fashion force.
Capturing Queens with Care
With more than 20 years of experience photographing drag performers, Ovando has built lasting relationships with many of his subjects, some of whom date back to the very first season of RuPaul’s Drag Race. That deep trust shines through in the authenticity of the images.
“It’s important the queens know I’m there to showcase them at their best,” he said. “Lighting is everything, it’s what brings the illusion to life. And consent is non-negotiable. I’d never shoot someone who wasn’t ready or aware. That illusion is sacred.”
A Love Letter to Drag, Fashion, and Queer Culture
More than a book, Dolls Volume 3 serves as a cultural time capsule, documenting a moment when drag, fashion, and pop culture are more intertwined than ever. “Fashion designers are referencing the dolls in their collections now,” Ovando noted. “And the dolls, in turn, are influencing fashion at large.”
The series, he added, is “a love letter to drag,” and he hopes it will inspire future generations of creatives to honor and expand on the artistry it celebrates.
How to Get It
Dolls Volume 3 will be available at select stops on the 2025 Werq the World Tour. Fans can also pre-order the book beginning August 5 via MarcoOvando.com and VossEvents.com, with shipping set to begin on September 1.
Whether you’re a seasoned drag fan or just discovering the magic, Dolls Volume 3 is a must-have addition to any collection, a vibrant celebration of self-expression, beauty, and the boundless creativity of drag.
