Cynthia Erivo / New York, NY
In an award show portrait studio, you’re usually given one or two minutes at most. It’s fast, focused, and instinctive. When I had the chance to photograph Cynthia again in that setting, we picked up exactly where we left off three years earlier. It felt less like a quick press stop and more like a continuation of a conversation.
She brings an incredible energy into the frame. Open, grounded, fully present. The kind of presence that makes connection immediate.
#cynthiaerivo #celebrityportrait
Today launches the premiere episode of SHOTS with Rick Wenner, an interview series where I share about my career as a portrait photographer, behind the scenes stories, and more.
A huge thanks to my friends who helped make this happen. Aaron Grant interviewed me but more importantly he is one of my best friends and has a curious mind for everything. Courtney Smith was the DP on this shoot and killed it from start to finish. A true pro! James Caporuscio, co-owner of Cafe Joelle in my hometown of Sayville, NY and life long friend, opened the restaurant to us for the perfect setting.
More SHOTS coming soon!
#shotswithrickwenner
Honored to have another photo chosen for AP42 by @american_photography_winners this year. This portrait of Oscar winner Akiva Goldsman was shot for The Hollywood Reporter. All in camera, one take. Thanks to @ash_mack for the assignment! Retouched by the ultra talented @babydoll_studio
I recently photographed Joe Ariel (@joesbelly ), Founder and CEO of @goldbelly , for his appointment as Official Food Curator of America250 and the launch of Taste of America250.
We first met a few years ago on assignment for The Wall Street Journal. Great energy from the start, and it was even better to collaborate again on something with this kind of historical weight.
Shot over a full day in NYC
- Keen’s Steakhouse (@keenssteakhouse ) for environmental portraits
- Goldbelly HQ in Union Square for studio work
Lighting stayed simple and mobile
Diffused Photeks on location
Single octa with soft fill on seamless
Digi Tech/First Assistant - @francisbonniii
Assistant - @dommullphoto
Spent a few hours with a new friend. Mie Yim is an incredibly talented artist in The Bronx who I recently invited to be part of my Artists series, now in its 16th year! See more of the project at rickwenner.com
