He first found his rhythm in music, playing the piano, singing, and mastering the alto sax. But when he realized he had an eye for visuals, he shifted gears. At sixteen, after working at The Masters, he bought his first camera. Not long after, his grandmother taught him how to sew. The blend of fashion and photography became his artistic signature, influenced by the glossy pages of Vogue and GQ, and the high-stakes creativity of America’s Next Top Model and Project Runway. These weren’t just hobbies, they were career possibilities, and Rickey was ready to chase them.

As a photographer and fashion artist, Rickey brings an intentionality to his work that sets him apart. It’s not just about snapping a picture; it’s about crafting an experience. His technical expertise in lighting and composition ensures a polished final product, but it’s his creative instincts that elevate the work. Pushing his clients beyond their comfort zones, he captures images they never imagined, moments of authenticity, confidence, and timeless beauty. He’s drawn to clean lines, meticulous execution, and storytelling through fashion and portraiture, balancing structure with a touch of the abstract. His work isn’t just meant to be seen; it’s meant to be felt.  Like any artist, Rickey’s journey hasn’t been without setbacks. A trip to Atlanta for a photo shoot turned into a nightmare when his car was broken into, and all his camera equipment was stolen. Just when he was working to rebuild, his car was broken into again, and this time, his sewing kit was taken. Losing not just his tools but also his creative momentum was crushing. For over a year, he was without a camera, unable to shoot, and struggling with the weight of it all. But resilience is in his nature. He took on part-time jobs, saving every dollar he could until he was able to invest in new equipment. In an unexpected twist of kindness, Dr. William Lopez, whom Rickey had served at the country club, slipped him a donation inside the bill. That, combined with his own savings, was enough to put a new camera in his hands and get him back in action. “God knows all,” he says, reflecting on that moment.  For Rickey, art is more than personal expression, it’s a way to build community. His photography has placed him in rooms with the right people, leading to collaborations, opportunities, and the ability to amplify diverse stories. Whether capturing cultural moments, documenting events, or inspiring others to pick up a camera or a sewing needle, Rickey’s work reaches beyond him. His passion for mentorship and advocacy is just as strong as his love for the arts. As the Assistant Director of The Ryan Clark Scholarship, he’s dedicated to literacy and education, a cause that stems from his time as a teacher. “The barrier to entry is high when students don’t have strong reading skills,” he explains. “Literacy affects everything, and I will always stand for it.”

Looking ahead, Rickey has no plans to slow down. His dreams are as ambitious as they are inspiring. He envisions his own fashion and media brand, built on emerging designers, sustainability, and culture. He wants to see his work in the pages of high-profile magazines, hanging in galleries, and maybe even gracing the screen in a show of his own. His goals extend beyond photography, he sees acting, on-camera roles, and his own fitness journey playing a role in his evolving artistry. More than anything, he wants to inspire others to embrace their most authentic selves, just as he has.

When asked what advice he’d give to emerging artists, Rickey keeps it simple and real: Just start. Whatever sparks your interest, dive in headfirst. Be consistent. Learn as much as you can. Don’t be afraid to go full-on nerd about your craft. Quality is everything, but don’t let perfectionism hold you back. Put your work out into the world. And above all else, respect, authenticity, and good manners will take you further than you ever imagined.

When he’s not creating, Rickey has fully embraced his gym bro era, trading his camera for a set of weights and a WERQ or Zumba class. He’s a lover of books, journaling, biking, swimming, and deep podcast dives. And, in case you didn’t know, he’s left-handed, the only one in his immediate family, which is just another thing that makes him stand out. For Rickey, being a Black artist is like having a superpower. “Understanding the history and legacy of my people carries a heavy responsibility,” he says. “It informs how I show up in the world and helps me stand out in my creativity.” His experiences growing up in Augusta have given him a unique perspective on race, culture, and identity, one that fuels his passion and keeps his work grounded in something greater than himself.  Rickey Jones is not just a photographer, a designer, or a creative force, he is a movement. His artistry is rooted in legacy, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His journey has been filled with highs and lows, but through it all, he has remained steadfast in his vision. And if you haven’t yet experienced the magic of his work, trust, he’s just getting started.