Today we’d like to introduce you to Richard Franklin.
Richard, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I took photography up as a hobby about 20 years ago. Then began to specialize in glamor. No nudity, ethnically diverse fit models. Strong emphasis on vivid colors. Developed a unique style which led to many articles that emphasized my creation of a distinctive look. That work can be seen at www.rfmodelphotography.com
Never publicized myself but relied on word of mouth. Broadened my range to shoot high-concept artistic shoots with models that frequently reinterpreted iconic imagery such as ballet dancers, Geisha’s, Harlequins, Ancient Greece, Roman Gladiators and much more. The website for that is www.rfphotoarts.com
Then became interested in abstract and visions of outer space. Now the leading photographer of visions of the Cosmos. Featured in Bloomingdales and leading art shows such as Art Basel. Website for that is www.richardfranklinphotography.com
Now returning back to glamour shooting more in Miami and the Caribbean.
Has it been a smooth road?
If you are determined to achieve originality and excellence nothing ever comes easy. I deliberately make things challenging for myself and want to struggle to achieve work that I am proud of. For example in my artistic work I use no assistants, choose very complex concepts and do not use photoshop. At the end of the day very proud that I have achieved a reputation in three distinct areas of photography.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
Frankly, I feel proud every waking moment. I never stop feeling amazed and surprised that I have totally exceeded my expectations in three different fields of photography. My house is full of my work and so I am reminded constantly of what I accomplished and I get a high from that not to boast to others but because every shoot was such a challenge. So it’s probably a good thing to be proud of one’s achievements and to carry that with you all the time.
Every story has ups and downs. What were some of the downs others might not be aware of?
For me, every photograph is a struggle in the sense that I only shoot if I can find a very challenging concept that is hopefully totally original. Of course, I sacrificed other opportunities and sometimes relationships to accomplish my goals but nothing would stop me in my drive to unleash my creativity. In a sense, a good artist always struggles for perfection and that is stressful but is outweighed hopefully by the joy of eventual accomplishment of satisfying work.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
I think LA is a wonderful place to create and pursue creative dreams. I come from London and whilst that is a magical city the weather is dreary and I don’t think I would have accomplished nearly as much. This city inspires you with glorious weather and the interaction with like-minded people who have come here to pursue their artistic dreams and I find it the most supportive community.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.rfmodelphotography.com www.rfphotoarts.com www.richardfranklinphotography.com
- Phone: 323 252 6016
- Email: plazadrive@aol.com
