Interviewed By Natalie Friberg | Photography By John Russo Photo
Celebrity and fashion photographer John Russo has worked with many of the most famous names you’ve seen on the silver screen, billboards and beyond. Currently one of the most sought-after photographers in the world with a portfolio featuring names such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lopez, Brad Pitt – to mention a few – and more than his fair share of national magazine front covers, we caught up with him to find out how his drive and passion have manifested into a stellar career.
Q: How did you get started as a photographer and what attracted you to the profession?
JR: I always wanted to be a photographer since I can remember. I would tear out spreads in magazines and dream that one day I would be creating them. I loved the work of Herb Ritts and Bruce Weber. I was inspired by their creativity and the way they captured their subjects.
Q: What are the biggest challenges you face?
JR: Relationships that you have spent years nurturing and then the person leaves the company and you have to start all over again. It happens all of the time. But the rewards far outweigh the challenges. The bottom line is I am only in competition with myself.
Q: What are the personal and professional attributes that have allowed you to create success in your business and life?
JR: I am the most driven guy. If thrown to the wolves, I will come back leading the pack. It’s the Leo in me. Anything is attainable and I pride myself on the power of positivity. And to be honest I actually love what I do so I am never really working.
Q: You’ve photographed stars and icons across many industries and have a remarkable portfolio of work. What keeps you inspired and motivated?
JR: I am motivated by the incredible people that I photograph. I am inspired by their work and focused on creating stunning images of them that will have social immortality.
Q: Who is the most fascinating person you’ve photographed and why?
JR: I would have to say Jennifer Lopez. She is the most driven, professional, hard working person I have ever met. She defines Movie Star. An absolute icon.
Q: Tell us about your new philanthropy book “100 Making A Difference” and what curating this book meant to you.
JR: It is a collection of the world’s most iconic philanthropists and humanitarians. I have been traveling the world for the past seven years creating this amazing book. This has been the most unbelievable experience meeting these people and hearing their stories.
Q: What does the future hold for John Russo?
JR: To keep doing what I love, creating art and projects that make a difference.
To learn more about John Russo and his work visit johnrussophoto.com.
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