Bob Richardson was (he died in 2005) an amazing Photographer Famous for his sexy druggy Debauched Style in the Swingin 1960's Everyone who saw his Photos in Martin Harrison's Unparalled " Appearances"(Fashion Photography since 1945) in 1991
has waited with bated Breath for a Book on this Mans work. Robin Derrick and Robin Muir (from English Vogue) Put out "Unseen Vogue, The Secret history of Fashion Photography" in 2003 I cannot Rave enough about this Book, If you Don't have it Buy it right Now and Martin's Magnum Opus.In 'Unseen Vogue' which I have to Look at every Day its so fabulous!! The Robin's included Richardson"s Pictures and there in color. The Problem With the new Book on Richardson is its all Black and White. (But not even good black and white ). If the Photos were as clear as the Cover Shot it would be fine , But his editorial work from Vogue, French Vogue etc.. are so poorly produced
Grainy, out of focus It looks as if they were Badly zeroxed!! In Contrast helmut Newton's excellent book of editorial work called "pages from the Glossies" the production is clear and well produced and In Color!!! So do you want to spend 75.00 on a picture of angelica Houston looking like a Glam Rock Cinderella? well if it were better Quality I would say, Sure !sign me up! The real part of the book thats worth good money is Bob Ricardson's Poignant Autobiography . This Bisexual Bombardier of Vogue in the 60's and 70"s Had a major Chip on his shoulder.(he truly was his worst enemy someone once said)
His Avedon on Quaaludes style did not sit well with those Up-Tight Magazine editors of the time. Nor would they today. Of Course He raves about how much better he is than Everyone and that hes a God in Europe! (great Hubris, but a Great talent)
His Superciious Diatribe is Frustrating and Vexing and at heart Touching but very Discourteous towards the industry That fed him those fat Checks. A sort of "Answered Prayers" on the Fashion Biz and The man Names Names!!! So if you enjoy William Klein, Avedon, Burt Stern, David Bailey,and helmut Newton you will love Richarson!