Colin grew up behind the lens in his father's photography studio in Chelsea, where the energy of Manhattan seeped into everything he saw. As a teenager, he documented New York City's underground rave scene - an early education in capturing raw, unguarded moments in challenging light. That experience led him to The Fashion Institute of Technology, where the connections he built opened doors to shoot NYC Fashion Week and work at Twelv Magazine.
But fashion was just the beginning. Drawn to portraiture's power to reveal character and story, Colin assisted Mark Seliger and later Platon - opportunities that took him around the world and fundamentally shaped his approach to making images. Working alongside photographers known for their intimate, unflinching portraits taught him that great photography happens in the space between photographer and subject, built on trust and mutual respect.
Today, Colin specializes in editorial portrait work for publications, bringing a thoughtful, collaborative approach to every shoot. He understands that his subjects are trusting him with their image and story, and he creates an environment where people feel comfortable being themselves. Whether photographing artists, executives, or everyday people with extraordinary stories, Colin's goal is the same: to create honest, dignified portraits that reveal character without exploitation. His work has taken him from New York to locations around the world, but the foundation remains constant - respect for his subjects and a commitment to telling their stories with integrity.
Give him a shout at: studio@colinhughesphoto.com