In the rarefied atmosphere of fashion photography, Richard Burbridge's unconventional photographs are a breath of fresh air. The UK native, who is part of the furniture at design bible i-D, has brought his hyper-attenuated eye and perfectionism to Harper's Bazaar, W and French Vogue. Burbridge is also noted for his penetrating portraits of celebrities such as Sean Penn and Iggy Pop, as well as designers Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood and Jeremy Scott. Here, the typically taciturn shutterbug opens up to Lee Carter about cover-worthy winks, Christmas tree kinks, and other high fashion hijinks.

Lee Carter: Did you find fashion or did fashion find you?

Richard Burbridge: Initially, I stayed away from fashion, but I've always thought fashion photography is some of the best photography there is. I was recently looking at next season's advertising campaigns—like Versace, Dolce & Gabbana and Missoni—and I think it's outstanding.