Terry Richardson - Controversy

Controversy

The sexual nature of Richardson's photography has always been controversial, as has the sexualized atmosphere and activity at his photoshoots, in particular on the part of Richardson himself. Richardson once claimed of the fashion world, "It's not who you know, it's who you blow."

Richardson has been accused multiple times of sexual exploitation of young models. In March 2010 Richardson was accused by Danish model and filmmaker Rie Rasmussen, who was upset at Richardson's use of her picture in his Terryworld book alongside shots of half-naked young girls depicted as performing sex acts. Rasmussen commented, "He takes girls who are young, manipulates them to take their clothes off and takes pictures of them they will be ashamed of. They are too afraid to say no because their agency booked them on the job and are too young to stand up for themselves." Model Jamie Peck related, "Of all the fine folks I've frolicked au natural for, he's the only one who's left me feeling like I needed to take two showers."

Following the publication of these allegations, the website Jezebel.com called on other models to come forward with their experiences with Richardson. Jenna Sauers, a model-turned-blogger for the site, stated she received numerous anonymous accounts of the photographer's behavior: "I have heard from a lot of models that he has worked with that all say his M.O. is the same. You suddenly get naked and then he touches you and he goes further and further. But you're surrounded by his assistants and they are validating his actions."

In response to these allegations, Richardson said, "I just want to take a moment to say I’m really hurt by the recent and false allegations of insensitivity and misconduct. I feel fortunate to work with so many extraordinary people each and every day. I’ve always been considerate and respectful of the people I photograph and I view what I do as a real collaboration between myself and the people in front of the camera."

Model Noot Seear has defended him, claiming that he does not pressure those he works with into doing anything they are uncomfortable with, while designer Marc Jacobs, although admitting problems within the industry, has said that as a person Richardson is "not ill-spirited."