About Rachel Hardwick

Rachel Hardwick is a freelance photographer based between London and Brighton, specialising in shooting people and events that fit into the queer, alternative and sex positive communities in which she feels most at home.

Having been immersed in the London scene for over a decade, her work captures self-expression, diversity, and individuality beyond conventional norms.

Published in 2016, ‘Celestial Bodies’ is a collaborative photo book showcasing a road trip across the west coast of the US, that Rachel took with her sibling, El Hardwick and friend, Chrissie White. This sparked a fire within her to travel, and she continues to explore new destinations and document them through her photography. Read more about the book on Dazed, BJP and Capricious.

Beyond her work as a photographer, Rachel co-founded Forgotten Circus Events in 2015, and the Forgotten Circus School in 2017. These ventures further solidified her connection to the world of creative expression and performance art.

Notable clients include:

Google, Time Magazine, InStyle Magazine, Sainsbury’s, AnOther Magazine, ElleGirl Korea, VICE Magazine, Tide Banking, Secret Cinema, Wildcard PR, Third Mind Productions, Birdsong London, Fontsmith, Typenotes Magazine, The Isle of Wight Festival, Boomtown Fair, Craig Charles Funk & Soul Club, SkinTwo Magazine, ‘The Bigger Book of Fashion Illustration’, The Clapham Grand, Secret Garden Party, Lollipop, ‘China: The Future of Travel’ by Roy Graff


Testimonials

Rachel always seems to capture such a beautiful snapshot of moments and experiences. Her unique eye for detail and some how always being present at the right time to capture incredible moments means she’s the perfect photographer to be part of ensuring that events and memorable ceremonies are forever remembered.
— Jared Philippo, Founder of Pinky Promise (Event Photography Client)
I enjoyed working with Rachel tremendously! The process for the shoot was very collaborative, which I really appreciated. I had brought some ideas and Rachel knew exactly how to find the best way to depict them. It was a very fun shoot and I am looking forward to booking another one!
— Malik Ibheis, Circus Performer & Actor (Aerial Circus Photo Shoot Client)
One year later and I’m still getting compliments about my session with Rachel - no doubt because she made me feel so at ease during our shoot, and the results really show that!
— Amalia (Boudoir Photo Shoot Client)