there are several repeating themes in richardson's work, notably that of putting high-profile celebrities in mundane situations and photographing them using traditionally pedestrian methods, such as the use of an instant camera. his work also explores ideas of sexuality, with many of the pieces featured in his books "kibosh" and "terryworld" depicting full-frontal nudity and both simulated and actual sexual acts. initially, many of richardson's subjects would be shot before a white background but he eventually expanded to other backdrops. he is also known for posing with his subjects, often giving them his trademark glasses so they may "pretend to be him" or, in the case of actress chloë sevigny, posing them in makeup and costume so that they look like him. richardson counts larry clark, nan goldin, diane arbus and robert frank as early influences on his artistic style. his work has been praised by helmut newton.