Hi, I'm Marwen Larafa

Designer & Visual Storyteller

@ProductDesigner

@larafa_marwen

Design for me isn't just about pixels—it's about how we see the world. My journey started in computer engineering, but my heart found its home behind the lens of a camera. I spend my days crafting intuitive digital experiences and my nights exploring the textures of light and shadow through street photography. For me, a great interface should feel as natural and honest as a raw film photograph.

Visual Gallery

Blending technical precision with the soul of photography.

For privacy and NDA compliance, my deep-dive case studies are password protected.
Curious? [Drop me a line] and I'll hand you the keys.

Lens & Logic

A deep dive into the ergonomics of digital camera interfaces. I reimagined the mobile photography experience, focusing on how manual controls can be intuitive rather than intimidating. The goal was to bridge the gap between mirrorless professional gear and the smartphone in your pocket—creating a fluid, tactile workflow for creators on the go.

Frame Focus

Designing a modular gallery system for high-fidelity visual assets. This project involved creating a design language that steps back and lets the work speak for itself. We used dynamic grids and intelligent whitespace to ensure that whether you're viewing a street photo or a logo design, the emotional weight of the image remains the priority.

The Creative Bridge

Architected a platform specifically for peer-to-peer design and photography mentorship. We focused on visual feedback loops—allowing mentors to leave high-precision markups on photographs and mockups. This wasn't just about learning tools; it was about training the 'eye' through collaborative storytelling and technical critique.

The Extended Cut

Experiments, explorations, and early wins. A collection of work showcasing my range from mobile apps and e-commerce systems to pure visual storytelling.

Analog Pulse

A visual exploration of grain and texture. This project focused on the visceral feeling of film photography—capturing how 'imperfect' analog elements can make digital interfaces feel warmer and more human.

Aperture System

Building a design system for photography portfolios. I created a set of flexible, image-first components that allow photographers with zero coding skills to showcase their vision in high definition.

Street Frames App

An app designed for street photographers to pin locations and track light levels throughout the day. I refined the UX to be usable in bright sunlight and with one-handed operation.

Light & Shadow

A masterclass in minimal composition. This project explores how negative space in design mimics the bokeh effect in cameras, drawing the user's eye exactly where it needs to be.

My Vision

Bridging the gap between a photographer's eye and a designer's logic. I've spent years refining how we capture and interact with visuals. Whether it was designing camera ergonomics for global tech giants or architecting visual-first systems, my mission is the same: making technology as reactive and honest as a high-end camera lens.

Sep 2025 - Present

Visual Lead

Leading the design language for immersive visual products. I focus on high-fidelity user experiences that balance aesthetics with deep functionality.

Apr 2022 - Aug 2025

Product Designer

I designed the core experiences for mirrorless camera companion apps and digital editing suites, ensuring the professional workflow flows perfectly onto small screens.

May 2018 - Mar 2022

Visual Designer (UXD)

Mastering scale at Amazon. I proved that good design must also be good business. I built the self-serve Brand Builder frameworks that empowered millions of global sellers to tell their brand stories.

Ola

Feb 2017 - Apr 2018

UI/UX Designer

Building the plane while flying. At this hyper-growth mobility startup, I was in the end-to-end rental experience. I turned operational chaos into a seamless digital journey, solving deep trust issues.

Incture

Sep - Nov 2016

Associate Developer

The technical bedrock. Before designing screens, I built them. Writing production code for SAP interfaces and integrating REST APIs gave me a permanent advantage: I speak 'developer' fluently.

Beyond Pixels

Podcast: Designing the Modern Lens

A deep dive into how camera technology influences UI design. We discuss why 'tactile' design is winning over flat design in the professional space.

Visual Composition Workshop

Recognized for teaching designers how to use photography principles (rule of thirds, leading lines) to create more engaging web layouts.

Podcast: The Story in the Frame

Talking about my journey from code to camera. A candid look at how switching to visual storytelling changed my approach to user research.

Start a Conversation

I'm always down to talk about minimalist design systems, the latest mirrorless camera tech, or how to tell better stories through composition. Whether you have a project in mind or just want to geek out over lenses, let's connect.

LinkedIn Instagram 1:1 Mentorship

My portfolio is messy (or non-existent). Should I wait to book?

Every great shot starts with a rough frame. The same goes for design. I actually love looking at raw concepts—whether it's a blurry photo or a messy Figma file. We can discuss visual balance, lighting, or how to translate your 'eye' into a functional user experience. Don't wait for perfection to start the conversation.

I'm switching from Engineering (or another field) to Design. Can you help?

What is your feedback style? Will you be nice?

How can I make sure I don't waste our time?