Essay & Photography
by RICHARD BERNARDIN.
Illuminating Elegance.
As a fashion photographer, I embark on a perpetual quest to capture the essence of beauty—translating fleeting moments into timeless images that resonate with emotion and depth. Each click of my camera shutter is a brushstroke on the canvas of life, painting a portrait of elegance and grace that transcends the boundaries of time and space.
In my world, light is not merely illumination; it is a tool, a medium through which I sculpt and shape the contours of my vision. I seek out the interplay of light and shadow, using them to accentuate the lines and curves of the human form, to infuse my photographs with a sense of drama and mystery. For me, photography is not just about capturing what is visible to the eye; it is about revealing the hidden truths that lie beneath the surface, about unearthing the soul of my subject and laying it bare for the world to see.
When I gaze through the viewfinder of my camera, I’m not just looking at my muse—I’m witnessing a transformation, a metamorphosis from ordinary to extraordinary. With each frame, I strive to capture the essence of my subject and to distill it into a single moment frozen in time. Whether it's the delicate curve of a cheekbone or the subtle sway of a garment caught in the breeze, every detail is carefully curated to evoke emotion and provoke thought.
For me, fashion photography is more than just a profession; it is a passion—a calling that beckons me to explore the boundaries of creativity and imagination. It is a journey of self-discovery, a process of constant evolution and growth as an artist. With each new project, I challenge myself to push beyond my comfort zone, to experiment with new techniques and ideas, to redefine what is possible within the realm of visual storytelling.
But perhaps most importantly, fashion photography is a collaboration—a dance between myself, the model, the stylist, and the entire creative team. It is a symbiotic relationship, each member bringing their unique perspective and talents to the table, each contributing to the final masterpiece that emerges from our collective efforts. Together, we weave a tapestry of beauty and elegance, each thread adding depth and richness to the overall composition.
"Each click of my camera shutter is a brushstroke on the canvas of life."
- Richard Bernardin
In the end, what drives me as a fashion photographer is not just the desire to create beautiful images, but the opportunity to connect with people on a deeper level—to inspire, to provoke, to ignite the spark of creativity within their souls. For me, there is no greater joy than seeing the impact that my work has on others, knowing that I have played a small part in shaping the way they see the world.
As I continue on my journey, I am filled with a sense of gratitude—for the privilege of being able to do what I love, for the opportunity to collaborate with so many talented individuals, and for the ability to share my vision with the world. And though the path ahead may be uncertain, one thing is clear: as long as there is beauty to be found in the world, I will be there, camera in hand, ready to capture it in all its magnificent glory.
Merci Amélie, you are one-of-a-kind and an extraordinary muse, to whom I would like to express my deepest gratitude. Your presence not only inspired the images captured but also challenged me to push the boundaries of my artistic vision. Your grace, elegance, and willingness to explore new horizons have left an indelible mark on my work, allowing me to create these stunning photographs. Thank you for sharing your essence and for being a beacon of inspiration on this creative journey.
This edition of RLVNT was shot in Los Angeles, California.
Credits
Photography: Richard Bernardin
Muse: Amélie Tremblay @ The Lions Mgmt
Styling: Model’s own
Photo Assistance: Justin B
And SPECIAL THANKS to DAYGLOW for graciously hosting this shoot in their beautiful LA studios.