Originally from Germany, Ellen began her career as a model in the 70s before branching out with many different artistic pursuits. Her experience and connections as a model shot her to the top as she became one of the world's most sought-after Fashion Photographers.
She specializes in what some people have called "erotic femininity" as most of her photos are a demonstration of female sexuality. In a typical Von Unwerth photo, her subjects are clad in old-fashioned lingerie, holding themselves in provocative positions and looking seductively at the camera.
Controversy has arisen with many of her images, with some critics comparing her photographs to pornography. Von Unwerth has waved these complaints saying that "The mystery in [her] pictures differentiates them from porn. They tell you a story, but you don't know quite where it's going to take you. They are ambiguous and activate your fantasies". (Von Unwerth, E, source unknown)
The comparison to porn, however, is unsurprising as Von Unwerth has said herself that she draws inspiration from pornographic images of the 1950s such as those of Bettie Page and Marilyn Monroe.
It is in this style that she began a side-project to her fashion photography called "Revenge"; a series of photos based on a pornographic film with Bettie Page. In this series of photos, she endeavors to tell an 1920's erotic story around a group of women who go on holiday. The exhibition was controversial, yet well-received and was eventually turned into a book.
Although, it is not all just Tarts and Vicars. Von Unwerth has been hired, not only as a photographer, but as a short film and music video director, working with artists such as Christina Aguilera, Duran Duran and Salt and Pepa.
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