Everyone seems to have a bucket load of questions for charles. Here are the answers to those asked most often.

What does the “i.” stand for in your name?
Irl. It’s a family name handed down to the eldest son.

Why did you choose to be a photographer?
I didn’t. Photography forced itself upon me and made me love it.

How do you describe your style?
Experimental evolution. Our industry is constantly changing. Remaining static is not an option, but at the same time not everything new is worth adapting. I continually try new things and keep only what works.

Which do you like shooting more, fashion or art?
That’s like asking which of my boys is my favorite. I enjoy each for different reasons. Both are about form and visual communication, but they approach those tasks from very different directions.

Who is your favorite model?
Whomever is in front of my camera next. You didn’t really think I was going to answer that one, did you?

Who influenced you as a photographer?
Time spent with Horst P. Horst, Helmut Newton, and Richard Avedon was invaluable and irreplaceable. 

What is behind your obsession with natural and ambient light?
Reality. The softness and suppleness of natural light shows us not just what we want to see, but how our eyes actually see things. There’s nothing artificial or contrived. 

Will you shoot my wedding?
No.