Ellie Rich: Cinematic Personality: The Art of Editorial Portraits

Projects: Over the last 15 years I have worked on all types of projects all over the world, from the bustling streets of New York to the quiet beauty of the European countryside and Dubai desert.

Featured in: over 130 magazines

Brand affiliations: My husband and I work on multiple projects throughout the year and continuously provide professional photos for various brands. Most companies we work with create medieval attire, fashion, and fitness clothing.

As an artist, and a storyteller through the lens of my camera, I sought to capture the essence of the extraordinary. To immerse myself in the ethereal realms of beauty and emotion, where moments transcended the confines of time. The allure of freezing fleeting instants, infusing them with eternal significance, consumed me.

My fear became a catalyst, igniting a fierce determination within me. I could not bear the thought of being labeled as ordinary, a mere observer of life’s grandeur. I craved to be a curator of the extraordinary, an architect of the unseen, and a weaver of dreams. It was this relentless pursuit that drove me to embark on a path less traveled.

I strive to capture moments that transcend the ordinary, transcending the boundaries of conventional visual storytelling.

I seek to immerse myself in the fleeting beauty of the world. I am captivated by the ethereal realms that exist beyond the confines of time. I endeavor to freeze these fleeting instants, infusing them with an eternal significance that resonates with viewers on a profound level. I delve into the intricate complexities of human emotions and the subtleties of the human experience, infusing my images with layers of meaning and introspection. Through my lens, I become a curator of stories, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of narratives woven within each frame.

In essence, my work stands apart by offering a visual journey that oscillates between the ethereal and the introspective, between the extraordinary and the intimate. It is a symbiotic union of styles that invite viewers to escape the ordinary and embark on a profound exploration of the human experience, one frame at a time.

Finding inspiration for my photoshoots is a sacred dance with the universe—a mesmerizing waltz between the ethereal and the tangible. It’s an exploration of textures, colors, and emotions that intertwine to create timeless visual poetry. Like a delicate whisper carried by the wind, inspiration gracefully embraces my being, revealing the secrets of the universe through my lens.

In the realm of artistry, inspiration knows no bounds. It springs forth from the depths of my soul, ignited by the kaleidoscope of life’s tapestry. It emerges from the tender kiss of a sunset on a far-flung coastline or the gentle sway of wildflowers bathed in golden light. Nature, with its unparalleled grace, gifts me with an abundance of inspiration at every turn—a symphony of landscapes, seasons, and ever-changing beauty.

The enchantment continues as I immerse myself in the world of creativity. I seek inspiration from the pioneers who came before me, those who painted the canvas of photography with strokes of genius. The old masters and modern visionaries, their work resonates within my core, guiding my artistic endeavors.

Beyond the visual realm, inspiration is found in the stories that whisper through the ages—a symphony of human experiences that resonate deeply within our souls. It may be the unwavering bond between two souls, the untamed joy of a child’s laughter, or the silent triumph of a tear cascading down a cheek. These narratives, woven with threads of love, joy, and vulnerability, breathe life into my images, inviting viewers to embark on their own visual journey.

Yet, in the end, inspiration is not solely a mystical force bestowed upon me; it is a collaboration between the universe and my creative spirit. It thrives on curiosity, on daring to explore uncharted territories, and on embracing the unknown.

So, where do I find my ideas for photoshoots? They are all around me, waiting to be discovered. In the whisper of the wind, the brushstroke of a master, and the beating of a human heart, inspiration beckons me. It is an endless wellspring, an ever-evolving tapestry of creativity that I am blessed to draw from, enriching my work and infusing it with a touch of magic.

Ah, the elusive essence of an extraordinary photograph—truly a question that dances upon the lips of many seekers of beauty. To distill such artistry into mere components is to endeavor upon a delicate tightrope between science and sentiment.

For me, an extraordinary photograph transcends the bounds of a single frame, weaving a tale that lingers in the recesses of the mind. It begins with light—the masterstroke of nature’s brush, painting chiaroscuro dreams upon the canvas of reality. The interplay of shadows and highlights, the soft caress of golden hour’s embrace, and light breathe life into the photograph, whispering secrets and evoking emotion.

Emotion is the soul’s voyage into the captured moment. It is the spark that ignites connection, that elusive essence that whispers untold stories. An extraordinary photograph captures the dance of laughter, the tremor of vulnerability, the silent tear—embracing the human condition in all its splendor and fragility.

And yet, we must recognize the art of composition, the conductor of visual harmony. Like a maestro sculpting a symphony from chaos, a skilled photographer wields lines, shapes, and space to orchestrate a visual ballet that enchants the eyes. Balance, tension, rhythm—they all interplay to guide the viewer’s gaze and provoke contemplation.

In the end, an extraordinary photograph is an alchemical blend of light, emotion, and composition—a sacred union of technical prowess and soulful connection. It is a moment suspended in time, forever imprinted upon the fabric of our collective consciousness.

When it comes to striking a balance between my artistic expression and my client’s expectations during a shoot, I believe in open and honest communication from the very beginning. It is essential to have a thorough discussion with my clients before the shoot, where we can exchange ideas, understand each other’s vision, and establish realistic expectations.

During this initial conversation, I make sure to share my artistic style, portfolio, and approach to photography. This gives my clients a clear understanding of what to expect in terms of my creative expression. Listening attentively to my clients’ desires, preferences, and expectations is equally important. I encourage them to share any specific shots or ideas they have in mind so that I can incorporate their requests into the shoot. By doing so, I ensure that their unique vision is captured while still maintaining my artistic integrity.

On the day of the shoot, I maintain a balance by blending my creative instincts with the client’s desires. I strive to capture the moment’s essence while staying true to my style. This involves finding opportunities to infuse my artistic perspective into the shots, whether it’s through composition, lighting, or posing, while also delivering images that align with the client’s expectations.

During the shoot, I maintain open lines of communication, frequently checking in with my clients to ensure they are satisfied and addressing any concerns they may have. This collaborative approach allows for adjustments and ensures that we are working together to achieve the desired outcome.

In post-production, I use my editing skills to enhance the images and bring out the best of both my artistic style and the client’s vision. I strive to create a cohesive body of work that showcases the emotions, details, and moments that were important to my clients while incorporating my unique artistic touch.

Ultimately, the key to striking a balance between artistic expression and client expectations is through clear communication, active listening, and collaboration. By understanding and respecting each other’s perspectives, we can create meaningful and beautiful photographs that resonate with both the clients and myself as an artist.

The art of editing plays a vital role in bringing my creative vision to life and infusing my signature style into each photograph. It is during this stage that I carefully craft the mood, tones, and overall aesthetic of my images, ensuring they align with my artistic vision. I aim to create a timeless and ethereal quality that evokes emotions and tells a captivating story. To achieve this, I have developed my own signature style of editing—a delicate infusion of fine art that transforms editorial portraits and boudoir photography. This approach elevates my photographs, adding a touch of magic and transforming them into works of art. Through meticulous attention to detail, I curate a harmonious balance of light, color, and texture, creating a visual experience that is both captivating and emotionally resonant.

My editing process involves enhancing the natural beauty of each image while maintaining authenticity. I strive for a balance between preserving the integrity of the moment captured and infusing it with a touch of artistic expression. This delicate dance allows me to create a distinct visual language that is uniquely mine—a style that resonates with my clients and evokes emotions that stand the test of time.

Now, as for my best-kept secret in editing processing—I believe it lies not only in specific techniques or tools but rather in the deep connection I establish with each photograph. I immerse myself in the emotions and energy captured in the frame, allowing them to guide my editing decisions. It is this connection, this intuitive understanding, that breathes life into my images and imbues them with magic and a sense of authenticity.

As you embark on this journey, remember that it’s not just about mastering technical aspects or emulating others—it’s about discovering your unique perspective and expressing it authentically. Let me shed some light on how I developed my own creative voice and offer guidance on nurturing yours.

Remember that finding your creative voice is a journey. It takes time, experimentation, and introspection. Have faith in the process and avoid comparing yourself to others unless it serves a clear purpose of improving your own work. Instead, utilize comparisons with the best of the best as a source of inspiration to continuously refine and enhance your skills. Stay true to your passions and values, and let your voice unfold organically. Your artistry is waiting to be discovered so go out, chase your dreams, and create magic with your lens.

Instagram: instagram.com/ellierich_artistry

Facebook: facebook.com/Ellierichartistry

Website of Ellie Rich: ellierich.com Website of Mr. & Mrs. Rich: mrandmrsrich.com

Credits:

Stylist & Cr Dir & Model & Retoucher & Fashion & MUA: @ellierich_artistry

Photo: @dillonfilmphoto

Assistant: @wild_caesar