Richard Boll

Author Archives: Richard Boll

Two-day Lifestyle Photography Shoot for Redrow

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Posted by Richard Boll on 21st February 2025 – 3:37 pm
Filed under Advertising, Advertising Photography, Commercial Photography, Editorial Photography, Food photography, Interiors Photography, lifestyle Photography, Location Photography

Two-day Lifestyle Photography Shoot for Redrow

I recently had the pleasure of working on a dynamic two-day lifestyle photography shoot for Redrow, commissioned by the renowned creative agency DRPG. The project aimed to capture a diverse range of lifestyle, interiors and exterior imagery to celebrate key holidays—Halloween, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Easter—showcasing Redrow’s beautifully designed homes in a festive and inviting light.

A lifestyle photograph of friends enjoying Christmas by Richard Boll of London.

A Collaborative Effort

The collaboration was a real highlight of the project. DRPG’s creative team provided exceptional production from Lucie Jolliffe and Sarah Watts, who also provided fantastic art direction throughout the two days, ensuring a cohesive vision across the seasonal themes. Premium styling by Aurelien Farjon elevated each scene, bringing out the character and warmth of the interiors while aligning perfectly with the festive atmospheres we sought to portray. The work of Aurelien Farjon can be seen here: www.aurelienfarjon.com.

Multi-Faceted Photography Challenges

The shoot was multifaceted, involving interior and exterior photography, lifestyle photography, and still-life setups. Each discipline brought its own set of challenges and considerations:

Interior Photography: Capturing the aesthetic appeal of Redrow’s interiors required careful planning. Lighting was critical, as we aimed to balance the natural light streaming through large windows with artificial lighting to create a warm and inviting ambience. Composition also played a key role in showcasing the architectural details, furniture, and décor in the best possible way.

Lifestyle Photography: These shots brought the interiors to life, illustrating how the spaces could be used during festive celebrations. Scenes were staged with props and styled environments that told a story, ensuring the images resonated with Redrow’s audience.

Exterior Architectural Photography: The exterior shots were equally important, highlighting the architectural elegance of the homes. The timing was crucial to capture the best natural light, typically during the golden hour, while also ensuring the houses looked as pristine as they do in person.

A detail of a table dressing photographed for Redrow by Richard Boll.

The Role of Pre-Production

An essential aspect of this project was meticulous pre-production planning. This included planning shot lists for each seasonal theme, and ensuring the required props and styling elements were ready to go. Coordination between the creative team and stylists ensured that every element aligned with the branding objectives and the festive themes.

DRPG: A Leader in Creative Communication

DRPG is a globally recognised creative communications agency specialising in delivering impactful campaigns, live events, video production, and digital content. Their expertise lies in crafting innovative solutions that engage audiences and align with their clients’ objectives. From strategic branding to immersive experiences, DRPG’s work consistently sets new standards in creativity and execution. Their collaboration on this lifestyle photography project exemplified their commitment to quality and attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of the imagery aligned with Redrow’s branding and messaging.

A woman preparing a spread for Easter celebrations in a lifestyle photograph by Richard Boll of London.

Redrow Homes: A Legacy of Excellence

Redrow, established in 1974, is one of the UK’s leading residential property developers. Known for their high-quality builds and thoughtful designs, Redrow combines modern living with traditional craftsmanship. Their developments often focus on creating vibrant, sustainable communities with an emphasis on green spaces and architectural character. With a rich history of delivering exceptional homes, Redrow has become synonymous with quality and innovation in the housing market.

Lifestyle photography of a family enjoying a Halloween party. Richard Boll Photography, London.

A Productive and Rewarding Experience

The team’s professionalism and enthusiasm made the shoot a great success. The productivity of the two days was a testament to the seamless collaboration between all involved, from the creative direction provided by DRPG to the impeccable styling by Aurelien Farjon. Together, we created imagery that brought Redrow Homes to life in an engaging and visually stunning way, capturing the essence of festive celebrations with premium lifestyle photography within beautifully designed spaces.
This project was a perfect example of how creative collaboration, attention to detail, and adaptability can result in impactful photography that not only showcases a product but also tells a compelling story.

See more of my lifestyle photography here, and get in touch to discuss any forthcoming projects.

 

Water Effects Studio Shoot for Spinlock

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Posted by Richard Boll on 13th January 2025 – 2:54 pm
Filed under Advertising, Advertising Photography, Commercial Photography, Studio Photography, Water effects photography

Water Effects Product Photography for Spinlock.

In the summer of 2024, I had the opportunity to collaborate with Spinlock on a dynamic two-day product photography shoot. Spinlock’s brief was clear: to showcase their Explorer range of bags, including the compact 2-litre waist-worn bag and the spacious 35-litre roll-top bag, with an emphasis on their 100% waterproof capabilities. The result was a creative exercise in product and water effects photography, combining bold visuals and technical precision.

Highlighting Waterproof Design with Water-based Photography

To demonstrate the bags’ waterproof properties, we incorporated dramatic water elements into the shoot. The 2-litre waist-worn bag was plunged into a tank of water, freezing the moment it went beneath the surface. For the 35-litre roll-top bag, we sprayed and threw water across it in the studio, emphasising its resilience and functionality. These water effects not only highlighted the products’ features but also added a sense of energy and movement to the imagery.

Spinlock waist bag being plunged into water with splash taken by London product photographer Richard Boll.

Factors to Consider in Water Effects Product Photography

Photographing products with water involves several challenges and considerations to ensure the best results. The first step is controlling the water itself. Whether it’s splashes, sprays, or submersions, understanding how water behaves in motion is important. Fast shutter speeds combined with specialist high-speed flash and precise timing are key to capturing dynamic water effects without losing clarity.

Lighting also plays a pivotal role. Water reflects and refracts light unpredictably, so careful placement of lights and modifiers is essential to avoid unwanted glare, reflections or shadows. For this shoot, critically placed lighting helped accentuate the water droplets and splashes while maintaining focus on the bags.

Protecting the equipment is another significant factor. Using waterproof covers and maintaining a controlled environment minimises risks to cameras and lenses during water-based setups.

Finally, creative direction and planning are key. Collaborating with stylists and art directors on the shoot ensures that the water effects align with the brand’s vision and that the products remain the central focus of the imagery.

Striking Visuals and Bold Colour Combinations

The choice of a strong red backdrop by Spinlock’s art director provided a striking contrast to the Explorer bags’ colour palettes. The blue of the roll-top bag and the yellow and grey of the waist-worn bag popped against the vibrant red, creating visually compelling product shots that draw the viewer’s attention. This approach reinforced the bold and adventurous spirit of Spinlock’s brand.

A blue Spinlock waterproof bag being splashed with water against a red background photographed by Richard Boll.

Lifestyle Integration

In addition, the shoot included studio images featuring a model wearing waterproof gear with the roll-top bag. As water sprayed across the scene, the imagery captured the functionality and durability of the products in action.

Technical Excellence with the Fujifilm GFX 100 II

For this shoot, I used the Fujifilm GFX 100 II, a 102-megapixel medium format camera that excels at capturing intricate details. This equipment was crucial for rendering the textures of the bags and the dynamic water splashes with stunning clarity, ensuring that every droplet added to the narrative of waterproof reliability.

Studio product photography of close up detail of water droplets on a waterproof bag made by Spinlock.

Balancing Creativity and Clarity

The project also included product shots, also known as packshot photography, to clearly illustrate the features and design of the bags. Balancing creative water-based shots with clean, strong product photography ensured that the images catered to a range of marketing needs. This shoot exemplified the power of combining creative concepts with technical expertise in studio product photography.

Spinlock: Excellence in Design and Manufacture 

Spinlock is an independent and innovative company based in Cowes, UK, the ‘Home of Yachting’. They have over fifty years of experience in designing and manufacturing for the marine sector.

With a history rooted in innovation and excellence, the company has consistently set benchmarks in quality and functionality. Known for their cutting-edge sailing gear and accessories, Spinlock’s products combine durability with performance, making them a trusted choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Their commitment to pushing the boundaries of design has cemented their reputation as a global leader in the watersports and marine industries.

See more examples of my product photography here and examples of my lifestyle photography here. Get in touch to discuss any projects that require premium images.

The portrait photographer Diane Arbus

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Posted by Richard Boll on 11th December 2024 – 1:07 pm
Filed under Cornelia Parker, Diane Arbus, Editorial Portrait, Environmental Portrait, Fine Art Photography, Jake Wood-Evans, Portrait Photography

My Inspiration and Influences as a Portrait Photographer

When I first began to produce work as portrait photographer, one name that captured my attention was Diane Arbus. Her direct, unflinching, sometimes provocative, and deeply human work stood out as a striking departure from conventional portraiture. Studying her images during my early years as a photographer, I was drawn to the honesty and raw emotion she brought to her subjects. Arbus dared to photograph people on the fringes of society, illuminating their individuality with openness and empathy.

Diane Arbus’s Unique Approach

Arbus was renowned for her ability to connect with her subjects on a deeply personal level. Whether photographing circus performers, artists, or people on the streets, her work radiated an authenticity that invited viewers to reconsider their expectations of what can make an effective portrait. Arbus’s photographs often feature her subjects staring directly into the camera, their gazes meeting the viewer with startling immediacy. This approach fostered a sense of intimacy and mutual respect between the portrait photographer and her subjects.

A young man in curlers at home on West 20th Street, N.Y.C. 1966 by Diane Arbus.
Diane Arbus, A young man in curlers at home on West 20th Street, N.Y.C. (1966)

One of her most iconic images, Identical Twins, Roselle, New Jersey (1966), exemplifies her uncanny ability to blend the familiar with the unsettling. The photograph’s composition, with the twins posed symmetrically against a plain backdrop, evokes a sense of both harmony and unease. This duality became a hallmark of Arbus’s work and a constant source of fascination for me.

The portrait Identical Twins, Roselle, New Jersey (1966) by Diane Arbus

Diane Arbus, Identical Twins, Roselle, New Jersey (1966)

Lessons for Commercial Portrait Photography

Diane Arbus taught me to embrace the complexities of humanity in my own photographic practice. While Arbus’s work delved into unconventional subjects, her commitment to capturing authentic emotion is a principle that resonates in commercial portrait photography as well. Working as a commercial portrait photographer in London, I strive to bring a similar sense of honesty and connection to my portraits.

A portrait of the artist Cornelia Parker taken in London by the photographer Richard Boll.

A portrait of the artist Cornelia Parker by Richard Boll.

In my own work, such as my series of portraits of artists, I aim to reflect the unique character of each subject. For example, my portrait of London-based artist Cornelia Parker captures her character through a combination of effective composition and candid expression. Another portrait, featuring the artist Jake Wood-Evans, features the artist with a direct and unflinching look to the camera while revealing the thoughtful intensity of his creative process. This portrait was left on the floor of the studio of the painter in order to develop a “history” of marks.

A portrait of the painter Jake Wood-Evans in his studio, by the photographer Richard Boll.

A portrait of the artist Jake Wood-Evans by Richard Boll.

Who Was Diane Arbus?

A portrait of the photographer Diane Arbus by Arthur Lubow.

Born Diane Nemerov on March 14, 1923, in New York City, Arbus grew up in a privileged environment but was drawn to the complexities of life outside her immediate world. After working in commercial photography with her husband, Allan Arbus, she found her true calling in the 1950s when she began pursuing personal projects that focused on the human condition. Her career gained momentum in the 1960s, as her work was published in prominent magazines and exhibited in galleries. Arbus’s style was shaped by her preference for square-format cameras and predominantly natural lighting. She often worked in close proximity to her subjects, creating an atmosphere of trust that allowed her to capture their essence. Her images, while sometimes controversial, challenged conventional ideas of beauty in portraiture, paving the way for future generations of photographers to explore similar themes.

Legacy and Lessons from Arbus Diane Arbus’s contribution to the art of photography lies not only in her technical skill but also in her courage to confront uncomfortable truths. Her work reminds me that photography is not just about aesthetics; it is also about empathy, connection, and the willingness to see the world through another’s eyes. As a commercial photographer in London, I strive to incorporate these values into my practice by creating portraits that are not only visually striking but also emotionally engaging.

Arbus’s legacy is a testament to the power of vulnerability and authenticity in art. Her images continue to challenge and inspire, urging photographers like me to approach our subjects with honesty and respect. Whether through her stark portrayal of human fragility or her celebration of individuality, Diane Arbus redefined what it means to create meaningful portraiture. Tragically Arbus took her own life on the 26th of July, 1971. Her work continues to significantly influence the work of many photographers.

To explore more of Diane Arbus’s extraordinary work, visit collections of her work such as that at the Museum of Modern Art in New York or look out for exhibitions dedicated to her groundbreaking photography. For examples of how her principles translate into modern commercial photography, you can explore my portraiture portfolio at Richard Boll Photography, where I aim to blend technical precision with a genuine connection.

Get in touch to commission a portrait photography shoot.

Different types of Corporate Photography to consider for your brand

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Posted by Richard Boll on 27th November 2024 – 12:53 pm
Filed under Advertising Photography, Commercial Photography, Corporate lifestyle photography, Corporate Photography, Corporate Portraiture, lifestyle Photography, Portrait Photography

Different types of Corporate Photography to consider for your brand

When people think about corporate photography, they often assume it’s limited to headshots of CEOs, senior executives, or employees. However, corporate photography encompasses far more than business headshots. As a professional corporate photographer in London, I’ve worked on a diverse range of projects that go beyond portraits, capturing the essence of businesses in ways that elevate their brand identity and connect with their audience.

Types of Corporate Photography

Corporate photography is a versatile field, offering businesses a variety of options to showcase their identity, values, and operations. Below are some of the key types of corporate photography that can bring your company’s story to life:

1. Corporate Headshots and Portraits

While headshots remain a staple, they’re not one-size-fits-all. Modern corporate headshots often emphasise authenticity, personality and approachability, reflecting the company culture. Whether it’s a clean and professional backdrop or a more relaxed environmental setting, corporate headshots are a crucial component of branding, especially for LinkedIn profiles, company websites, and press materials.

Corporate headshot of a woman in a London office.

2. Corporate Lifestyle Photography

Corporate lifestyle photography focuses on capturing authentic moments that illustrate your team at work. These images can include candid shots of brainstorming sessions, employees collaborating in the office, or even a team enjoying a coffee break. These types of photographs showcase the warmth of the human side of your business, helping you to connect with clients and potential employees on a more personal level.

A team meeting photographed by Corporate photographer Richard Boll.

3. Behind-the-Scenes Photography

Behind-the-scenes photography gives audiences a glimpse of your company’s inner workings. This could include production lines in factories, the craftsmanship involved in creating a product, or day-to-day office activities. By revealing what happens “behind the curtain,” businesses can build trust and transparency with their audience. The image was taken for the fantastic agency Park Avenue Recruitment.

Corporate lifestyle photograph of a woman writing on a whiteboard by Richard Boll photography.

4. Corporate Event Photography

From networking meetings to conferences, award ceremonies, and company social events, corporate event photography captures the highlights of these occasions. Professional images of these moments are invaluable for showcasing your company’s achievements, culture, and community involvement on websites, social media, and marketing materials.

5. Architectural and Interior Photography

The architecture and interiors of your office or headquarters can also say a lot about your business. Capturing these spaces with professional photography highlights your company’s environment, giving potential clients and partners a sense of your professionalism, innovation, and culture. This photograph was taken for Lazard Bank in Paris.

An example of corporate architectural photography by London photographer Richard Boll.

6. Corporate Product Photography

For businesses that manufacture or sell products, product photography is key to presenting items in their best light. Whether it’s cars, furniture, food, or other goods, high-quality imagery ensures your products stand out on your website, in brochures, or across advertising platforms. Companies might require advertising photography, packshot photography for websites, or editorial-styled imagery to express elements of their brand.

How Corporate Photography can help your brand

Corporate photography plays an essential role in defining your brand identity. High-quality visuals communicate professionalism, build trust, and create a compelling narrative around your business. By commissioning diverse types of corporate photography, companies can use these images across multiple platforms, including:

Websites and social media (including LinkedIn and Instagram)
Annual reports and newsletters
Business plans and investor presentations
Editorial features and press releases

Each type of image serves a purpose, whether​ it is showcasing your team, highlighting your services, or giving an insider’s view of your company’s operations. Together, they form a cohesive visual story that strengthens your brand presence and helps you stand out in a competitive market.

Choosing the Right Style for Your Business

The style of corporate photography you choose should align with your brand’s values and the message you want to convey. For example, a tech startup might prefer dynamic, lifestyle-oriented shots that highlight innovation and collaboration, while a law firm may favour classic, polished portraits to communicate professionalism and trust.
As an experienced corporate photographer in London, I’ve helped many clients craft the perfect visual narrative. By collaborating with marketing and art directors, I guide businesses in selecting the styles and settings that best reflect their ethos. Together, we create powerful imagery that enhances their brand and resonates with their target audience.

Ready to Elevate Your Corporate Photography?
If you’re looking for an experienced corporate photographer in London to capture professional headshots, corporate events, or lifestyle imagery, I’d love to help. Let’s discuss how we can bring your brand’s vision to life. You can see more examples of my work and read testimonials from my clients here.

Get in touch:

richard@richardbollphotography.com


+44 (0)7812 908229

Behind the scenes of an International Airport Photography Shoot

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Posted by Richard Boll on 14th October 2024 – 5:51 pm
Filed under Advertising, Advertising Photography, Airlines, Airport Photography, Editorial Portrait, Environmental Portrait, Global Advertising, Lifestyle, lifestyle Photography, Location Photography

International Airport Photography

Managing a complex, large-scale photography shoot on location in a bustling, fully operational international airport comes with a unique set of challenges, including:
• Organising a big production team and a complex shoot schedule
• Navigating airport security with large amounts of equipment
• Working with a mix of airline employees and professional models
• The specific considerations for working with child models
• Shooting in various locations including check-in areas, waiting rooms, business lounges, family areas, and airport corridors
• Arranging for areas to be sectioned off to separate the shoot from public areas of an airport

Emirates Airline, Dubai International Airport (DXB)

I was commissioned by production agency xpogr to photograph an advertising lifestyle campaign for Emirates Airlines on location in Dubai International Airport (DXB). DXB is the primary international airport serving Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and is the world’s fifth busiest airport by passenger traffic, carrying the highest average number of passengers per flight.

Emirates Airline operates the largest airline hub in the Middle East at DXB Terminal 3, handling 51% of all passenger traffic, and approximately 42% of all aircraft movements at the airport. The brief was to shoot a series of bright, colourful, high-quality images showing confident, friendly, and approachable customer service representatives, featuring the iconic Emirates brand uniform. Guests including couples, children, and families were to be portrayed looking relaxed and happy.

As airports are often stressful environments where long waiting times can be experienced, the goal was to create images showing a happy, family-friendly premium experience.

Lifestyle photography for Emirates airline in Dubai by Richard Boll. A female member of the airport staff with a girl at the Unaccompanied Minors entrance.

My photography assistant and I flew from London to Dubai in style with Emirates who kindly provided us with business class seats. It was extremely comfortable and the high level of service and food provided was exceptional!

It was a very enjoyable project over five days with:

• one day for location scouting with the art director and producer

• one day for a pre-production meeting to discuss and finalise all aspects of the lifestyle photography

• three days of photography in various locations around Dubai airport

A family in an airport photographed for Emirates airline by lifestyle photographer Richard Boll.

Clearing large amounts of equipment through security can be time-consuming and needs to be factored into any shooting timetable. It was also challenging taking pictures in a fully operational airport with many passengers and staff members to work around.

The shoot was deemed a great success and several images from the shoot have been used for a global advertising campaign and on the Emirates website. More images from this project can be seen here.

Wharton School & United Airlines Executive

I carried out another airport photography project at Heathrow, shooting corporate portraits of a senior executive from United Airlines for the US-based Wharton Magazine.

A portrait taken by a United Airlines airplane at Heathrow airport by editorial photographer Richard Boll.

United Airlines was formed by the amalgamation of several airlines in the late 1920s and is now a major American airline headquartered at the Willis Tower in Chicago, Illinois. As of January 2024, United operates flights to 238 domestic destinations across the United States and 118 international destinations in 48 countries across all six inhabited continents. The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania was established in 1881 as the first business school in the United States, and the world’s first business school affiliated with an institution of higher learning. According to the 2022 Financial Times MBA ranking, it’s home to the world’s best MBA programme.

It was an interesting experience shooting portraits on the live runway with United Airlines jets in the background of the shots, resulting in strong final portraits which were very well received. These corporate portraits have been used extensively for a business profile interview in an editorial magazine feature for the Wharton Business School.

Airport Runway Photography

Another photography project that I carried out at a large airport involved shooting images in the air traffic control centre and on the runway. I took pictures of planes landing and taking off and photographed different locations including the meet​-and​-greet areas, departure lounges, and waiting rooms.

An airplane at Heathrow airport by commercial photographer Richard Boll.

The shoot generated a lot of strong content, and it was a fascinating insight into the workings of an international airport.

Planes at an airport by lifestyle photographer Richard Boll.

You can see more of more of my lifestyle photography here and more of my portrait photography here.

To discuss your requirements get in touch.

The art of collaboration and relinquishing creative control

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Posted by Richard Boll on 25th September 2024 – 11:35 am
Filed under Artists, Conceptual Photography, Editorial Photography, Environmental Portrait, Exhibitions, Fine Art Photography, Limited Edition Prints, Portrait Photography

The art of collaboration and relinquishing creative control

I’ve been working on my latest project Expression: Portraits of Artists for two years but it’s been an idea I’ve been exploring creatively for the last decade.

The project features visually striking photographic portraits of celebrated contemporary artists: Yarli Allison, Rana Begum, Gordon Cheung, Adam Chodzko, Ann Christopher, Marie Harnett, Bruce McLean, Cornelia Parker, and Gavin Turk. Also featured are Sussex-based artists Stig Evans, Richard Graville, James William Murray, and Jake Wood-Evans. The ongoing project involves elements of unique collaboration with many of the artists involved, inviting each artist to make their mark on the final piece and truly make the portrait their own.

The aim of the project is to celebrate the individuality and artistry of these talented people. Often artists are known for their works, but I wanted to tell the story of the people behind the artworks and capture their creative process.

With traditional approaches to portraiture, the sitter is typically invited to a photographer’s studio and the photographer directs the shoot. With this project however, it’s been more of a two-way dialogue with each artist about how they would like to be photographed, and inviting them to collaborate on the portraits by relinquishing creative control. This has challenged my standard process and opened my eyes to what that creative collaboration could achieve.

Yarli Allison (she/they) (b.1988) is a Canadian-born, Hong Kongese art-worker based between the UK and Paris with an interdisciplinary approach that traverses sculpture, installation, CGI (VR/AR/3D modeling/game), moving images, drawings, poetry, tattooing, and performances. This portrait was taken at her studio in London and she is photographed wearing one of her wearable pieces which references her sculptural and performative works. In this image, we worked together to create the mise-en-scène featuring a series of props, clothing, and headgear.

A portrait of the artist Yarli Allison by Richard Boll. The art of collaboration and relinquishing creative control is Richard's on-going project.

Gordon Cheung, born 1975 in London to Chinese parents, has developed an innovative approach to making art, which blurs virtual and actual reality to reflect on the existential questions of what it means to be human in civilisations with histories written by victors. Cheung raises questions and critiques the effects of global capitalism, and its underlying mechanisms of power on our perception of identity, territory, and sense of belonging. These narratives are refracted through the prisms of culture, mythology, religion, and politics into dreamlike spaces of urban surreal worlds that are rooted in his in-between identity. I took this portrait at Cheung’s London studio. During post-production, Cheung added a collaborative element – he applied his signature digital glitch – an algorithmic blur that distorts the pixels – inviting the viewer to question time, space, and reality.

A portrait of Gordon Cheung taken by Richard Boll and digital glitch applied by Gordon Cheung. The art of collaboration and relinquishing creative control.

Stig Evans (b.1964) is a painter and public artist based in Brighton. Evans’ work investigates concepts of visibility and perception. He uses colour to explore our visual acuity, how we perceive it, respond to it, represent it, and by its historical, chemical and physical and immaterial nature. He paints with an airbrush, building up many layers of sprayed colour creating chromatic colour experiences where boundaries, borders and chroma subtly move and shift in front of the eye. I shot this portrait on black and white film using a Hasselblad medium format camera. The background of antique pigment bottles was constructed by Evans in his Brighton studio. I hand-produced the silver gelatine fibre print in a darkroom which was then hand-coloured by Evans. He also applied 21,915 “strikes” in pencil, each strike representing a day of his life.

A portrait of the artist Stig Evans by Richard Boll. The art of collaboration and relinquishing creative control, Richard's ongoing project.

Jake Wood-Evans (b. 1980) is also based in Sussex. In an age dominated by screens and pixelated images, Jake Wood-Evans’ work feels like a welcome antidote. Drawing on the legacies of Old Masters, his intention is to capture the essence of these historic works without replicating them, depicting familiar, yet obscured subject matter. Creating ethereal images that are both unsettling and beautiful, Wood-Evans’ powerful use of light emerges from a loose and instinctive application of paint. His oil paintings shimmer with luminous and intense layers of colour as bold marks, dripping oils and scored surfaces sit in company with fine, delicate detail. The portraits of Wood-Evans were shot on black and white film using an Ebony 5×4” large format camera in Sussex studio. I hand-printed silver gelatine fibre prints which were then left on the floor of Wood-Evans’ studio for several months. They collected paint marks, drips, and textures from the artist at work. The collaborative portraits explore aspects of time as the prints develop their own history of marks.

A diptych of portraits of the painter Jake Wood-Evans by the photographer Richard Boll

Gavin Turk (b.1967) is a British-born, internationally renowned artist, who lives and works in London. He has pioneered many forms of contemporary British sculpture, including the painted bronze, the waxwork, the recycled art-historical icons, and the use of rubbish in art. Turk’s installations and sculptures deal with issues of authorship, authenticity, and identity. Concerned with the ‘myth’ of the artist and ontological questioning. Turk was included in several YBA exhibitions and his work is held within public and private collections worldwide, including the TATE, Museum of Modern Art New York, Museum MMK Für Moderne Kunst, Musée Magritte Museum, and San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. I shot this performance-style portrait of Turk in his London studio as he writes his signature in the air. It pays homage to Turk’s earlier works including Multiple Signature (1999) and Jazzz Signature (2009), while referencing Gjon Mili’s photographs of Picasso drawing with light, taken in 1949. The use of red and blue references Turk’s pieces I (2015) and That (2015).

A portrait of Gavin Turk writing his signature by Richard Boll.

Bruce McLean (b. 1944) is an acclaimed Scottish sculptor, filmmaker, and painter. He studied at the Glasgow School of Art and at Saint Martin’s School of Art, where he and others rebelled against what appeared to be the formalist academicism of his teachers. In 1965, he abandoned conventional studio production in favour of impermanent sculptures using materials such as water, along with performances of a generally satirical nature directed against the art world. From the mid-1970s, McLean turned increasingly to painting, sculpture, and film work and won the John Moores Painting Prize in 1985. This collaborative portrait is really significant to me as it initiated the idea for the Expression project. The blank canvases seen in the background inspired the idea to add collaborative elements and I invited McLean to apply paint onto the print. McLean added a painting of a sculpture of a jug to the final photographic print. The portrait was shot on a Hasselblad medium format camera using available daylight.

Bruce McLean in his London studio photographed by Richard Boll.

Richard Boll’s photography exhibition Expression: Portraits of Artists will open on the 4th of October at The Regency Town House in Brighton & Hove.

Limited edition prints of the images in the show will be available from the 4th of October at richardboll.art

Event details:
Location: The Regency Town House, 13 Brunswick Square, Brighton and Hove, BN3 1

Exhibition opening times: 
Tuesday – Friday 11am – 4pm

Saturday & Sunday 11am – 5pm

Monday closed

Artist Talk: Saturday 12th October 3pm. Tickets are free but limited: Eventbrite

About Photo Fringe

The biennial, open-platform Photo Fringe festival runs from the 4th of October to the 14th of November with exhibitions and events taking place online and in venues across its home city of Brighton & Hove and along the south coast from Newhaven to Portsmouth. The programme presents a vibrant mix of lens-based work from emerging practitioners and well-established names, in galleries, cafés, pop-up venues, outdoor installations, and other extraordinary spaces. photofringe.org

Q&A with Richard Boll on his show Expression

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Posted by Richard Boll on 11th September 2024 – 6:08 pm
Filed under Conceptual Photography, Editorial Portrait, Environmental Portrait, Exhibitions, Fine Art Photography, Gavin Turk, Gordon Cheung, Location Photography, Portrait Photography

Interview with photographer Richard Boll about his forthcoming exhibition Expression: Portraits of Artists

What inspired you to create the Expression series, and how did you choose the artists you photographed?

The inspiration for the series goes back to 1997 while I was studying at Edinburgh College of Art. I worked on a personal project photographing Scottish artists including Callum Innes, Elizabeth Blackadder, Callum Colvin, and John Houston which was a very enjoyable process and was an experience that really stuck with me.

In 2014, I had the opportunity to photograph Bruce McLean at his London studio and it was this portrait that initiated the idea for the Expression project. I was keen to reference the artist’s work by incorporating the teacup and saucer, which I bought from a charity shop. This references the work Tea on the Knee (1971). The blank canvases seen in the background inspired me to invite Bruce to paint on the final photographic print, which he generously agreed to, and that’s really where the concept was born. We reconnected in 2024 and McLean added a painting of a sculpture of a jug onto the final portrait and I’m delighted with the result.

Bruce McLean in his London studio photographed by Richard Boll.

It’s been a really interesting process of reaching out to artists to be a part of this project. I’ve tried to take a democratic approach inviting a broad range of artists from different disciplines. Some respond positively, some politely decline, and then it comes down to scheduling and availability as they are all busy people with their own creative practice. They all share one thing in the common which is that they all produce inspiring work that I’m keen to highlight through these images.

Can you share some of the most memorable moments you experienced while photographing the artists for this exhibition?

Each portrait shoot has been extremely memorable in its own way. I’ve enjoyed telling the story of the people behind the artworks through these images and I’ve found it interesting visiting their homes, studios, and working spaces. Some artists have embraced the opportunity to add collaborative elements to their portraits.
Visiting Gavin Turk’s studio in London was a fantastic experience. I was welcomed by a delightful team who were very accommodating as I had a series of different portraits planned, including Turk signing his name with a torch. Prior to the shoot, I tested this process at my home studio with a red torch to ensure a good exposure for the final shot. I felt very honoured to see bodies of work in process. For example, Turk’s candle paintings were underway in the studio on the day of the shoot. I then saw the completed paintings at a show at the Ben Brown Fine Arts in the winter of 2022-23.

The studio of the artist Gavin Turk in London. Photographed by Richard Boll.
Another memorable moment from this project was working with the fantastic Adam Chodzko. He was really engaged in the performative element and we spent the day driving around Kent to create some really interesting shots of him wading around in a pond, emerging from the sea in a suit and also dragging some sheets across a car park… It was a slightly surreal and highly memorable experience. I’m very grateful for his time.

The artists Adam Chodzko in a suit in the Sea off the Kent coast.
I also enjoyed visiting Ann Christopher’s home and workshop just north of Bath. It’s a wonderful and inspiring space. Christopher curated the RA Summer Exhibition and had selected one of my photographs for the show, which is how we connected. I invited her to be part of the project and she was really enthusiastic. I enjoyed talking with her and it feels like a very fortuitous meeting.

The workshop of the sculptor Ann Christopher in Bath, UK.

Were there any challenges you experienced?

The biggest challenge was scheduling the shoots. There are 13 different busy artists featured in this project to date and others I have been in dialogue with. Trying to manage shoot days in different locations around my commercial work has certainly been a challenge.
Relinquishing elements of creative decision-making and control has been very good for me, and to some extent challenging to my standard working methods. Each subject and portrait has had an individual approach and some artists have added collaborative elements to the finished photographic portrait. That creates a moment of anticipation during the reveal, not knowing how the artist has made their mark. But each time I’ve been overwhelmed with their contribution, from seeing Gordon Cheung’s digital glitch, to Bruce McLean’s painting of a sculpture of a jug, and Ann Christophers’ cuts and collage approach. Collaborating with artists opens the door for works to be created that are beyond my creative potential and is a very exciting process.

How do you approach capturing the essence of an artist in a portrait?

It all starts with research. I look carefully at each artist’s work and read as much as I can about them. I then try to plan 2-3 specific shots. I am always open-minded about being spontaneous on the day of the shoot, especially as many of the subjects are people I’m meeting for the first time in a space I’ve never seen before. To illustrate this, at Turk’s studio the illuminated signature was one of my original planned shots, but one of my favourite outcomes from the day was the seated portrait where he is facing away which was a spontaneous idea on the day.
Similarly, with Marie Harnett, I was eager to keep the approach spontaneous and fluid to reflect the film-like nature of her work. Not over-planning was the plan…

A portrait of the artist Marie Harnett drawing in a cafe in London.
With Cornelia Parker, I originally planned to use a backdrop and studio lighting. But on the day, I ended up using a handheld Hasselblad with natural daylight for the final portrait negating the need for some of the equipment I had taken, but you don’t always know that in advance. When you’re going to shoot in a space you haven’t seen before, planning is important, but sometimes you need to be open-minded and reactive about how to capture the person most effectively.

How does the project Expression contribute to the conversation of photography, art, and portraiture?

What interests me is the element of representation. The traditional model of photographic portraiture is that the sitter is typically invited to a photographer’s studio and told what to do by the photographer. Often there is not a great deal of input from the subject and I find that power position can be questionable.
I’ve enjoyed the dialogue created through the process that has resulted in a celebration of individuality, artistry, and collaboration. These portraits are an extension of that dialogue.
I’ve been interested in photographic portraiture since I started studying the medium in 1993. It can communicate the significance of these amazing creative people and hopefully encourage people to explore their work further. Photographs can be wonderful triggers for curiosity.

What do you hope viewers will take away from the Expression exhibition?

I hope people enjoy the show and that they have the opportunity to discover artists they might not have been aware of previously, encouraging them to investigate their work and ideas.

How does it reflect your evolution as a photographer?

I frequently carry out portrait shoots for my commercial work but this project has enabled me to explore different approaches to portraiture. From new and experimental methods to using medium and large format cameras which I don’t use in my commercial work, and hand-printing in the darkroom after a break of 20 years. I’ve loved the process and I’m delighted with the results.
I’ve also enjoyed the process of bringing a personal project through to an exhibition and I hope to continue to develop my personal practice alongside my commercial photography. Curating the exhibition has provided an opportunity to pause and reflect on this project, which I see as an ongoing work in progress. I’m already in dialogue with other subjects and plan to keep building on this body of work and to hold future exhibitions.

Expression is a compelling new photography exhibition showcasing a series of portraits of celebrated contemporary artists including Rana Begum, Cornelia Parker, and Gavin Turk. The free exhibition will run from Friday 4th October to Sunday 13th October at the Regency Town House gallery in Brighton as part of the Photo Fringe calendar of events. Limited edition prints from the project will be available to purchase at richardboll.art from 4th October.

Key details:

Location: The Regency Town House, 13 Brunswick Square, Brighton and Hove, BN3 1EH
Exhibition opening times:
 Tuesday – Friday 11am – 4pm
, Saturday & Sunday 11am – 5pm
Monday closed

About Photo Fringe
The biennial, open-platform Photo Fringe festival runs 4 October – 14 November with exhibitions and events taking place online and in venues across its home city of Brighton & Hove and along the south coast from Newhaven to Portsmouth. The programme presents a vibrant mix of lens-based work from emerging practitioners and well-established names, in galleries, cafés, pop-up venues, outdoor installations, and other extraordinary spaces. photofringe.org

Photography Exhibition: “Expression: Portraits of Artists” by Richard Boll

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Posted by Richard Boll on 29th August 2024 – 4:23 pm
Filed under Artists, Exhibitions, Fine Art Photography, Limited Edition Prints, Portrait Photography

I’m excited to announce that my show, Expression: Portraits of Artists will open on the 4th of October at The Regency Town House in Brighton & Hove. The show brings together visually striking portraits of thirteen celebrated contemporary artists: Yarli Allison, Rana Begum, Gordon Cheung, Adam Chodzko, Ann Christopher, Marie Harnett, Bruce McLean, Cornelia Parker, and Gavin Turk. Also featured are Sussex-based artists Stig Evans, Richard Graville, James William Murray, and Jake Wood-Evans. The ongoing project, commenced in 2022, involves a level of unique collaboration with some of the artists involved. These elements infuse the portraits with a blend of creative input, resulting in a dynamic and expressive visual narrative.

Limited editioned prints of the images in the show will be available from the 4th of October at richardboll.art

A close up portrait of the artist Marie Harnett drawing in a cafe in London. Photo by Richard Boll.

Exhibition dates: Friday, 4th October – Sunday, 13th October
Location: The Regency Town House, 13 Brunswick Square, Brighton & Hove, BN3 1EH
Exhibition opening times:
Tuesday – Friday 11am – 4pm
Saturday & Sunday 11am – 5pm
Monday closed

Special Event: Artist Talk
 On Saturday, 12th October at 3:00 PM

I’ll be giving a talk about the creative process behind the portraits, the collaborative nature of the project, and the broader themes of artistry and identity explored in the exhibition. Spaces are free but limited, so please RSVP for the Artist Talk here: EventbritePortrait of the artist Gavin Turk facing away from the camera in his London studio. Photo by Richard Boll.

This exhibition is part of the 2024 Brighton Photo Fringe festival taking place in venues across the city throughout October.

A colourful portrait of the artist Rana Begum in her home in London. Photo by Richard Boll.

 

I’m very grateful to the following suppliers for their help and support in creating work for the show.
Spectrum Photographic have printed my photographs for many years and I can strongly recommend them both for the exceptionally high standard of printing and also for their fantastic customer service.

I hand-printed several of the black and white prints in the show in the fantastic 71 Darkroom in Lewes. Run by the photographer Torz Dallison, excellent black and white printing facilities are available for small, medium, and large formats.

Many of the prints in the exhibition were framed at The Framing Workshop in Hove. I can wholeheartedly recommend their great customer service and very high standards of workmanship.

About Photo Fringe
The biennial, open-platform Photo Fringe festival runs from the 4th of October to the 14th of November with exhibitions and events taking place online and in venues across its home city of Brighton & Hove and along the south coast from Newhaven to Portsmouth. The programme presents a vibrant mix of lens-based work from emerging practitioners and well-established names, in galleries, cafés, pop-up venues, outdoor installations, and other extraordinary spaces.
photofringe.org
Follow @photofringe #photofringe2024

The Impact of Visual Storytelling in Corporate Annual Report Photography

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Posted by Richard Boll on 1st August 2024 – 5:10 pm
Filed under Corporate headshot photography London, Corporate Photography, Publications

Importance of Corporate Annual Reports

Corporate Annual Reports are essential documents for organisations to effectively communicate their business mission, brand values, financial statements, and future vision, as well as highlight their company and employee wins and achievements over the year.

The importance of using strong, professional branded imagery to visually tell your business story, and highlight staff achievements and successful projects cannot be underestimated. High-quality and engaging photography can greatly impact and enhance the effectiveness of annual reports, drawing readers in and creating a human connection to real people that builds trust and credibility.

Corporate Executive Headshots by Richard Boll in London. Image of a businesswoman at her desk.

Approach to Annual Report Photography

I’ve worked on several annual report projects for corporate communications agencies Brunswick and Identity, and directly for organisations such as Octopus Energy, Derwent, Lazard, Citibank, and American Express.

Photography commissions have spanned a wide variety of sectors including:
– Finance
– Investment
– Banking
– Energy
– Civil Engineering
– Technology
– Construction
– Property Development

The brief often requires a single-day or multi-day shoot for corporate portraits of a senior executive team.

Typically, corporate imagery for annual reports will include:
– group portraits of employees
– individual portraits of key people
– interior and exterior architectural images
– ‘fly-on-the-wall’ lifestyle images of people working or having meetings

Corporate Lifestyle Photography for an annual report by Richard Boll. A woman at her desk having a relaxed conversation on the phone.

Derwent London Plc

Derwent London is the largest office-focused real estate investment trust in the UK. I’ve been commissioned to photograph Derwent’s senior executives and employees for three of their Annual Reports, and the corporate shoots are always productive and well-organised. For the 2022 annual report, I shot several group portraits of their various teams including Finance, Health & Safety, Leasing and Marketing, Valuation and Investment, Asset and Property Management, Development and Sustainability, and Building Management & Facilities.
It was a logistical challenge to arrange for this number of people to be present for the shoot. Scouting for suitable locations required recces ahead of the shoots so that the positioning of the often large numbers of people could be planned for accordingly.

Corporate Group Portrait Photography by Richard Boll for Derwent London. The team in the lobby and on the stairs.

Common Challenges

The individuals I’m commissioned to photograph for annual reports are often time-poor, so location recces carried out before the shoot are valuable. Working closely with an Art Director and making up-front decisions on the composition, lighting, and poses needed is essential.
Many people can feel apprehensive about having their photograph taken, so it’s part of my job to help them relax, look comfortable, and enjoy the process.

Final Results

In summary, professional and high-quality annual report photography shot by a creative and experienced corporate photographer, not only engages stakeholders but helps to set your organisation apart.
The results for corporate lifestyle and senior executive portraits should be authoritative, approachable, and professional, and also bring brand elements into the photographs where applicable. On a final note, the beauty of commissioning a full range of corporate executive headshots, group photographs, and lifestyle shots, means the images can also be for your company website, LinkedIn profile headshots, and other promotional materials.

Corporate Architectural Photography in Paris by Richard Boll. Looking up through a skylight.

See more examples of my corporate photography work and email richard@richardbollphotography.com to discuss images for your next annual report.

London Lifestyle Photographer: Cambridge Satchel collaborate with Roald Dahl Company to design new Matilda movie collection

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Posted by Richard Boll on 16th July 2024 – 2:19 pm
Filed under Advertising Photography, Cambridge Satchel Co, Commercial Photography, Editorial Photography, lifestyle Photography, Luxury product photography, Product Photography

Cambridge Satchel

The story of how ‘Cambridge Satchel’ was founded in 2008 is a well-known tale. With only a small budget of £600, the business was established from a kitchen table in Cambridge. 5 years later, the brand was worth over £50 million.

The company celebrates brilliant British craftsmanship and exceptional materials. Combining a blend of old and new, their handcrafted, ethically sourced leather bags and satchels have a traditional taste, brought to life with style, finesse, and fun. Their products are designed to last and carry a lifetime of learning, curiosity, creativity, and adventure.

London product lifestyle photography for Cambridge Satchel Company in London

Collaborations

Cambridge Satchel only collaborates with people and institutions that they admire. In the past, they have worked with the Royal Opera House, the University of Cambridge, The Prince’s Foundation, and the Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Trust (QEST). Each of these institutions is founded upon a commitment to opportunity and education.

The movie of Roald Dahl’s ‘Matilda’

I was commissioned as a London lifestyle photographer to take both product and lifestyle photographs, for Cambridge Satchel’s new collaboration for the ‘The Roald Dahl Story Company’. A collection of bags, notebooks, purses, keyrings, luggage tags, and bookmarks, available in 6 limited edition colours, were embossed with designs by illustrator Quentin Blake and quotes from Roald Dahl’s ‘Matilda’.

A satchel from the Matilda movie range by Cambridge Satchel Company in London.

All of the lifestyle photography was shot in and around Covent Garden in London, where the company had set up a pop-up shop. The product photography was taken in the interior of their very elegant London store. Beautiful winter light enhanced the lifestyle photography taken around Covent Garden.

It was a very enjoyable shoot on both occasions, working collaboratively with the company and combining their ideas with my own suggestions. Their handcrafted bags and accessories are both stylish and high quality, and it was a real pleasure to photograph them.

Lifestyle photography in London for Cambridge Satchel Company

Cambridge Satchel were so pleased with the images from the shoot, that they have used several of the lifestyle photographs to promote the Matilda range in various fashion blogs including Fashion Network and Fashion United.

Image taken by London lifestyle photographer Richard Boll of a woman taking a book from a satchel in Covent Garden in London.

To find out more about Cambridge Satchel and their products, visit their website. More examples of my lifestyle photography can be found here and more of my London product photography can be found here.

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