It is impossible not to be familiar with Herb Ritts' work, which sets almost unreachable standards in portraiture. Our visual understanding of many, many celebrities and persons of note are the fruits of his talents.

His mark was left on the music industry as well, both for the photographic art he supplied, and for the music videos he directed.

Herb Ritts was a master of finding meaning within his subject, and allowing both the aesthetically pleasing and visually challenging aspects to speak for themselves, untouched by superficial technique or supplemental craft. The result was an image that spoke more of the subject than the subject's outward appearance. His work is of historical merit and should be studied and celebrated by all here who practice or appreciate the art of photography.