Terry Richardson’s name keeps popping up in the news. Don’t recognise the name? You might recognise some of his work (he recently directed a music video featuring Miley Cyrus nude on a Wrecking Ball). He is essentially infamous for his fashion photography that exploits young women (models) working (or trying to) in the fashion industry. How does he exploit women if he works in fashion, isn’t that the point?
Well, frankly he’s a sexual predator. All you have to do is look at the photographs to see his perception of women is clearly misogynistic. If you’re curious you might want to google him. I apologise if you come across some very offensive material.
As a female who occasionally photographs fashion (which sometimes included young teenage models) it’s really starting to grate on my nerves that this guy still has a job. When I am working, I feel protective of the women I am photographing. I want them to feel comfortable, safe and respected. This creep gets his thrills by objectifying women and is in a powerful position to do so.
Putting a camera between yourself and your subject there is immediately an imbalance bit of power. The photographer is generally in control of the situation and therefore there is a responsibility on them to behave respectfully and treat thier subjects with diginity.
Mr. Richardson has no regard or decency towards his subjects (except of course President Obama). Thankfully now there is a way to have my concerns heard. Because, I’m not the only one who’s pissed off.
A petition has been started and currently has over 16,000 signatures: https://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/big-brands-stop-using-alleged-sex-offender-pornographic-terry-richardson-as-your-photographer
Some of the offensive material can be found using the links located on the bottom of the petition. Please feel free to judge for yourself whether or not you find this guy offensive.
I certainly do.
If you have seen his work… I’m curious, what are your thoughts on Terry Richardson?
Redterrain 