Two and a half years ago, London born fashion photographer Phillip Ritchie discovered that his most volatile, affecting imagery was being created “after hours.” Working with high fashion models who, like him, had become disenchanted with the non-expressive nature characteristic of promoting designer clothing and accessories, Phillip decided to propel his photography—as well as his models—into unprecedented territory.
When a fashion shoot concluded for the day, Phillip and his models would use his southern California studio to explore intimate feelings and sensuality. Each model was afforded the opportunity to be as experimental as she pleased in conveying innermost aspects of herself seldom called for in fashion work. The photographic journey that ensued was intensely gratifying to both Phillip and his models. Phillip explains, “My desire was to bring out of these models the human, vulnerable side that is rarely seen and to break the confines of what is generally expected of them in the fashion world. It was very freeing for them to discard rules and restrictions and instead create from raw emotion. This was deeply moving for me to photograph. I think every woman wants to feel beautiful and sensual and I love giving these models the chance to do so.”
Phillip considers himself more of an artist than a fashion photographer and fuels his inspiration through personalized interactions with his models. He confesses, “Although it tears my heart to pieces, I need to fall in love with the individual beauty of each model I work with. Many times, this beauty is a unique aspect of a model’s personality. Whatever it is, I find it and stay focused upon capturing it because there is such a small window of time available to create the imagery and I will never have this particular model in front of my lens again.”
Phillip Richie Photography has some more amazing images.
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My interest in photography goes back as far, if not further, than I can remember. My Grandfather had a thing called a box brownie and i remember being amazed at how it recorded history. I was given a 120 film camera when I was about 10 as evidenced by some black and white photos I recently found of my sister when she was 5 or so - she turned 40 in 2008.
So from recording history, through the passage of an EOS 5 film into digital and moving into a desire to 'make images' rather than take photos, I find myself here.
Photography. "For the thrill of it."
Photography. "It's where life is happening."
Photography. "When time stands still."
Photography. "Maybe it's just about being there again." 
