Richard Corman

Richard Corman has been capturing poignant moments of human triumph for over three decades. While his work varies widely in style and subject matter, it’s always intensely focused on the human spirit. Rolling Stone refers to his photographs as “iconic.” Documentarian Ken Burns says Corman’s versatile body of work is an “artistic vision dedicated to the highest aspirations of human endeavor...the photographs record in big moments and small, among the famous and ordinary, the gifted and challenged, larger truths relevant to all of us.”

As a portrait photographer, Corman has worked with a thrilling breadth of subjects from Nobel Peace Prize recipients Nelson Mandela and Elie Wiesel to esteemed actors such as Robert De Niro, Meryl Streep and Daniel Craig. He’s also worked with elite athletes who inspire greatness, like Muhammad Ali and Michael Jordan, as well as with writers and artists who have left an indelible mark including Kurt Vonnegut, Basquiat and Naguchi.

Corman has been at the forefront of pop culture for almost his entire career. In 1983 he captures a series of striking images with up-and-coming starlet Madonna as she was on the verge of releasing her debut album. The radical East Village of Manhattan was the backdrop to showcase Madonna’s iconic fashion style, spontaneity and pioneering attitude. His new book Madonna NYC 83, which chronicles these stunning images, was released worldwide by Damiani Publishers.

Humbling experiences with non-profit organizations are reflected in Corman’s photographs. Most notable is heart-felt work with the Special Olympics as he has been photographing these inspiring athletes for over 20 years. Tim Shriver, President and C.E.O, Special Olympics says, "This is a lens with a different focus - one that captures something more than physical presence. With lyrical charm and arresting emotion, it reveals the core of individuals; their spirit, their courage, their humanity, their love. Such is the gift of Richard Corman."

Corman has also found great fulfillment in his work with the Wounded Warrior Project, American Association for Cancer Research, Amnesty International, United Way, Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, The ACLU, Christopher Reeve and Dana Reeve Foundation, March of Dimes, Spectrum of Hope Autism Foundation and Muhammad Ali's Parkinson's Center.

A native New Yorker, Corman has a degree in Art History and Psychology from Hunter College. He spent two years apprenticing with Richard Avedon early in his career.

His most recent work features influential ballerina and empowering figure, Misty Copeland.