We were lucky to catch up with Ellie Rich recently and have shared our conversation below.
Ellie , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today So, what do you think about family businesses? Would you want your children or other family members to one day join your business?
You know, it’s quite fascinating, the intricate dance that family businesses engage in – a tango of camaraderie, ambition, and the delicate balance between shared aspirations and individual growth. The success of such enterprises hinges on a foundation built from respect, a mutual flame of passion, and a mosaic of knowledge contributed by every member seated at the table.
My own saga began in the tender days of youth, where I took my first steps into the realm of industry, working hand in hand with my mother to orchestrate events, master the art of marketing, and capture fleeting moments through the lens of photography. These formative years sewed the seeds of expertise that would blossom into a lifelong passion. Through the lens of time, I embarked on a journey to uncover the myriad ways to manifest these dreams. A teenage photographer, a student of modeling and acting – these paths bestowed upon me the tools to erect a solid edifice, a sturdy platform from which to forge ahead.
My efforts now predominantly revolve around the world of photography and modeling, often crafting innovative blends of the two. A harmonious duet, choreographed by destiny itself, in collaboration with my life partner, Dillon Richardson. A soul whose resonance aligns seamlessly with mine, both in the realm of life and enterprise, an alliance destined by the stars. Together we traverse the landscape, shaping a future that aligns with our shared ambitions.
Our narrative weaves further into the fabric of Competition University, a business born from the vision of my mother-in-law, Tara Richardson. As a united force, Dillon and I step forth as a marketing team, promoting its values with fervor, a testament to our genuine belief in its potency for both scholars and mentors.
Through the course of my life’s story, I’ve witnessed the compelling tapestry of family businesses unfold – a tale of daring, innovation, and the audacity to aim high. These ventures, embracing the grandeur of existence, have etched an indelible mark on my perspective. In the end, the tale of family businesses is one of balance and wisdom. To cultivate an environment where individuals are empowered to contribute while respecting the contributions of others, where ambitions harmonize rather than clash, and where the legacy is nurtured without stifling the potential for growth and evolution – this is the delicate art of family entrepreneurship.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
My name Is Eleonora Richardson, known as Ellie Rich.
From my earliest memories, I have been a dreamer, constantly envisioning the most breathtaking and fantastical images that fuel my imagination. Fortunately, my innate talent for engineering and my unrelenting desire for growth have allowed me to transform those visions into tangible works of art.
Over the past decade, I’ve explored many different ways of making these dreams a reality, and it’s what brings me the greatest joy in life. I started out as a teenage photographer and a student at modeling and acting academy. Both paths gave me a solid foundation to build upon. Now I spend most of my time working primarily on photography and modeling (sometimes even combining the two in the most innovative ways).
My photography is dedicated to crafting stunning, evocative images that showcase the true essence of beauty in all its forms! As a boudoir photographer, I work with you to create a safe and empowering environment where you can feel confident and beautiful in your own skin. My approach to portrait photography is all about showcasing your unique personality and style, creating images that truly reflect the real you. And for those who love to dream and imagine, my fantasy photography transports you to a world of magic and wonder, where anything is possible. As an editorial photographer, I work closely with you to tell your story in a visually stunning and captivating way. And finally, as a fine art portrait photographer, I take inspiration from the world around me to create images that are truly works of art, bringing a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space. Whatever your photography needs may be, I am committed to creating images that inspire and delight, capturing the beauty of life in all its many forms.
While I was born and raised in Ukraine, my creative work, determination and love for photography has taken me all over the world – from the charming alleyways of Europe to the Dubai Desert and the streets of New York. As I look back on my travels, I feel nothing but gratitude for the opportunities I’ve had and the people I’ve met, and for the artistry that has defined my journey. It is through the creation of art that we can make a real difference in the world and leave behind a legacy for generations to come.
Aside from my main occupation, I enjoy designing outfits and graphics, troubleshooting, and working on digital marketing. On top of all that, I also support some of my clients as a life coach and fitness advisor.
My thirst for new experiences and creative expression has never wavered, and I remain dedicated to honing my craft and staving off any hint of boredom. I credit my mother for introducing me to the world of art from a very young age, and I have since found joy in various artistic pursuits, from acting in TV advertisements and shows to singing, organizing events and fashion shows, and, of course, modelling and initiating various photo projects.
I am grateful to be able to do what I love and love what I do, as life is simply too short to engage in activities that diminish our spirits. My greatest pleasure comes from creating works that make dreams feel real, bringing excitement and happiness to those I work with, uplifting people, and helping them realize their true potential.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
Within the realm of creative expression, photography emerges as a profound medium, a portal through which the depths of existence can be captured and reframed. The pursuit of this art, much like the navigation of life itself, requires a clear sense of purpose, a guiding star that steers the ship through the tumultuous waters of creation.
Consider the undeniable power of an evocative photograph – a single image capable of encapsulating the intricate tapestry of human emotion, the fleeting moments that shape our perception of reality. It is within this realm that my mission takes root, grounded in the profound belief that through the lens, I can capture the essence of the human experience, distilling it into a visual symphony that resonates with the souls of beholders.
My creative journey is akin to a pilgrimage, an expedition into the depths of meaning and significance. Through the act of composing an image, I seek to unearth the profound truths that underlie the ordinary, to extract the hidden gems of wisdom from the mundane. In a world often saturated with superficiality, my lens becomes a tool for exploration, a mechanism to delve beneath the surface and reveal the profound beauty and complexity that often elude the casual gaze.
Yet, much like any noble endeavor, this path is strewn with challenges. The pursuit of capturing the ineffable requires an unwavering commitment to mastery, a relentless dedication to honing one’s technical skills and artistic intuition. Just as a meaningful life demands resilience and tenacity in the face of adversity, so does the quest for impactful photography necessitate the willingness to embrace failure, to learn from missteps, and to persist with renewed vigor.
So, you inquire about my creative mission – it is, in essence, a solemn dedication to excavating the profound from the ordinary, to immortalize moments that hold within them the potential to inspire, provoke, and awaken. In the silent interplay of light and shadow, I aim to etch the indelible marks of human experience upon the canvas of time, each photograph a testament to the grandeur and intricacy of existence itself.
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
At its core, the foundation of my reputation rests upon an unquenchable thirst for mastery – an unrelenting drive to delve deeper into the art and science of photography. Just as a meaningful life necessitates the relentless exploration of one’s potential, so too does the creation of impactful images demand an unceasing curiosity, a hunger to uncover new dimensions and perspectives.
This journey of reputation-building is akin to a series of incremental battles, each a crucible in which my skills were forged and refined. Through the crucible of trial and error, I honed my technical prowess – mastering the intricacies of composition, light, and shadow. In the arena of artistic expression, I grappled with the complexities of storytelling, learning to imbue each frame with layers of emotion and meaning.
Yet, this path to recognition extends beyond technical prowess. The stories I choose to tell through my lens are a reflection of my values, an embodiment of the ideals I hold dear. In a world brimming with noise and distraction, it is this unwavering commitment to authenticity and depth that resonates with those who seek more than just surface-level aesthetics.
In the grand tapestry of my reputation, there lies an intricate interplay of technical expertise, artistic vision, values and creeds that I don’t gamble on and an unshakable commitment to purpose. Through the lens, I navigate the labyrinth of human experience, capturing moments that whisper truths and awaken emotions. And in this pursuit, I build not just a reputation, but a legacy – a testament to the enduring power of meaningful artistry.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ellierich.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellierich_artistry/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ellierichartistry/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellie-rich-b18804a0/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ellie_Rich_Arts
Image Credits
Models: Ellie Rich and Dillon Richardson Photographers: Ellie Rich and Dillon Richardson Assistant: Tara Richardson