Rankin – Britain’s Iconic Lensmaster and the Face of Contemporary UK Photography

When it comes to identifying the most influential and celebrated photographer in the UK, few names stand as tall as John Rankin Waddell, professionally known as Rankin. Over the last three decades, Rankin has emerged as a defining figure in British photography, renowned for his bold, provocative style and his ability to capture the spirit of the times. His portfolio spans fashion, portraiture, advertising, and activism, making him a versatile and influential force in both commercial and artistic realms. Born in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1966, Rankin moved to England during his youth and later studied at the London College of Printing (now part of the University of the Arts London). It was here that he began developing his unique photographic voice. In 1991, alongside Jefferson Hack, he co-founded Dazed & Confused magazine—a publication that quickly became a cultural icon and a platform for creative experimentation in fashion, music, art, and photography. Through Dazed, Rankin i...