Renowned British photographer Rankin, known for capturing the essence of some of the world’s most famous people, reflects on his inspiring career and his dedication to charity work. Over the last two decades, Rankin has photographed celebrities, supermodels, and royalty, but it is his commitment to giving back through various charity projects that truly sets him apart.
Rankin believes that with his privilege and success, it is essential to use his platform to make a positive impact. He acknowledged that his incredible job allows him to earn extraordinary amounts of money, but he realized the importance of striking a balance and giving back to society. His charity projects focus on diverse issues such as women’s health, combating plastic waste, recognizing the contributions of NHS workers, and shedding light on the continued risk of acid attacks as a form of gender-based violence.
The Acid Survivors Trust International (ASTi) is one of the charities Rankin actively supports. ASTi works to provide support, rehabilitation, and justice to survivors of acid attacks. These attacks predominantly target women and children, with an estimated 10,000 attacks occurring globally each year. South Asian countries, where garment and jewelry industries thrive, experience a significant number of acid attacks. Manufacturing processes and easy accessibility of corrosive substances contribute to the prevalence of such attacks.
Rankin’s collaboration with ASTi involves creating powerful images for the book ‘Tear Couture’, which aims to draw attention to the issue of acid attacks. One of his models, Patricia Lefranc, a Belgian activist and acid attack survivor, bravely shares her story through Rankin’s lens. The photographs challenge conventional beauty standards and aim to empower Lefranc and others who have undergone similar traumatic experiences.
Rankin’s approach to photography revolves around empathy and collaboration. He believes in creating something with his subjects rather than simply taking from them. This approach allows him to capture the essence of their resilience and humanity, resulting in captivating portraits that challenge societal norms.
The renowned photographer also emphasizes the need for continuous reinvention in the digital age. With the proliferation of smartphones equipped with advanced cameras, the photography industry has become increasingly competitive and challenging. Rankin advises aspiring photographers to remain current and constantly reinvent themselves to stay relevant in the ever-evolving landscape of visual storytelling.
Reflecting on his remarkable career, Rankin asserts that photography remains his greatest passion despite his ventures into advertising, directing movies, and making commercials. He appreciates the power of photography to convey deep emotions and connect with viewers on a profound level.
Rankin’s impactful portraits extend beyond celebrities and cover subjects that capture the essence of resilience, survival, and hope. His charity campaigns shed light on important societal issues and provide a platform for individuals to share their stories and experiences. Through his lens, Rankin challenges conventional beauty standards, encouraging viewers to question preconceived notions and look beyond the surface.
In conclusion, Rankin’s career as a photographer goes far beyond capturing the glitz and glamour of stardom. Through his charity work, he uses his talent to make a difference by bringing attention to critical issues and empowering those who have faced adversity. His photographs tell powerful stories of strength, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit. Aspiring photographers can learn from Rankin’s dedication, empathy, and willingness to challenge societal norms. In a world where visual content is abundant, Rankin’s work stands out for its depth, thought-provocation, and ability to inspire change.
