Richard Hankes and Ashlee Montague are the definition of a power couple. I have shot with them a few times over the years, and this photoshoot we did in Dumbo New York in 2018 is one of my favorites.
Here’s a little background/bio on Richard and Ashlee;
“Richard Hankes and Ashlee Montague are classical ballet dancers turned world record holding circus performers, and Cirque du Soleil alumna. They specialize in acrobatic ballet, adagio, hand-to-hand, aerial, and bottle walking acts. Richard and Ashlee met in 2007 while studying ballet at the Rock School for Dance Education in Philadelphia. Married July of 2017, the couple has performed across the globe together for television, film, commercials, print, and events.” (RichardAndAshlee.com 2025)
This shoot was extra fun for two reasons. First, Richard and Ashlee can do absolutely anything you ask them to. They really have no technical limit. And second, they brought a variety of outfits and props that really elevated the setting and created this whimsical/old Hollywood/clown/comedic aspect that translated into very compelling, layered dimensions.
You can follow Richard and Ashlee’s joint Instagram account here: @RichardAndAshlee
You can follow Ashlee’s solo IG account here @AshleeRoseMontague
And you can check out their official website here: RichardAndAshlee.com
And keep an eye on the Zine for more photoshoots with them going forward.
-Oliver Endahl
