Students hear from globally acclaimed photographer

Rankin is a British photographer, publisher and film director best known for work that sits on the cultural cusp and helps shape future trends. Throughout his career, he has produced rule breaking campaigns for major brands including Rolls‑Royce, Unilever, L’Oréal, Lego and Samsonite, alongside wide‑reaching projects for charities such as Women’s Aid and Macmillan Cancer Support. His creative output also spans music videos for artists including Miley Cyrus, Rita Ora and Kelis.

Speaking to students at Solent, Rankin reflected on his creative journey and offered honest insights into working within the commercial and editorial photography industries. He discussed the importance of developing a strong personal voice, embracing creative risk, and remaining adaptable in an ever‑evolving digital landscape, including the creative investigation of AI. Rankin also spoke about balancing artistic integrity with commercial demands, drawing on real‑world examples from his own career.

Students were encouraged to experiment, make mistakes and use collaboration as a creative tool, while also considering the wider cultural impact of their work and the responsibility that comes with creating images for global audiences.

Emma Calder, Course Leader for BA (Hons) Fashion Photography and Image Production at Southampton Solent University, said:

“It’s incredibly important for our students to hear directly from artists such as Rankin, who have achieved long‑term success while continuing to innovate and challenge industry norms. Talks like this give students invaluable insight into professional practice and help them understand what it takes to build a sustainable career in the creative industries. Rankin’s honesty about his journey was hugely inspiring and motivating for our students.”

Solent’s commitment to ensuring students are ‘career‑ready’ places strong emphasis on real‑world experience, as well as opportunities to receive advice and guidance from professionals who are active and successful in their fields.

Students studying Fashion Photography and Image Production explore both digital and analogue photography, moving image and post‑production techniques, alongside art direction and shoot management. The course also offers opportunities to collaborate with students from other fashion disciplines, providing invaluable networking and professional development experiences.

Throughout their studies, students have access to a wide range of industry‑standard photography facilities designed to support skill development and portfolio building. These include professional photography studios, such as a specialist infinity cove, make‑up studios, Mac suites and digital reprographics rooms capable of producing high‑quality professional prints.

Together, these resources ensure students graduate with the technical expertise, creative confidence and professional portfolios needed to succeed within the competitive creative industries.