NikonNet Press Release 01/11/04

NikonNet and ‘Legends Behind the Lens’ Honor the Work of ‘Unclassifiable’ Photographer Rick Rickman

MELVILLE, N.Y., Nov. 1 /PRNewswire/—While Rick Rickman’s work has been the definition of outstanding photography, it’s nearly impossible to put a label on his style of work.  For nearly 25 years, this Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer has captured some of the most memorable and creative images in a variety of fields, including sports, outdoor, adventure, corporate, travel and news photography.  It’s an oeuvre that can perhaps only be defined by calling
it “unclassifiable.”

This November, NikonNet’s inspiring monthly, “Legends Behind the Lens,” honors the work of esteemed photographer Rick Rickman.  Over the last 25 years, Rickman’s work has appeared in Time, Newsweek, National Geographic, Smithsonian and Men’s Journal, among many others. His corporate clients include AT&T, Coca Cola, Magnavox, the U.S. Olympic Committee and Nikon.

“NikonNet is pleased to honor the images and extraordinary career of Rick Rickman in this November’s ‘Legends Behind the Lens,’” said Tracy Mack- Jackson, senior manager of Internet Development and Programs at Nikon Inc. “He possesses an uncanny ability to tell stories through images. Whether the photo is for a major publication or a corporate client, Rick consistently produces work that is exceptionally creative and extremely powerful.”

While Rickman has won numerous awards for his photojournalism and commercial exploits, his special projects continue to garner praise. For the last four years, he’s been conducting an ongoing personal project about active seniors, who are themselves refusing to be labeled as “old” or “elderly.”

The seed was planted in Iowa, back in 1980, when Rickman worked for the Des Moines Register. It was there that he began meeting some truly inspirational seniors, such as Tuffy Doggett, a 78-year old retired farmer who used his love for horses to become one of the winningest jockeys in the Midwest.  In Ohio, he met Janet Freeman, a woman who became fascinated with running at the age of 59, and turned that fascination into world records.

“I think there was a perception that once you turn 60 or 65 and retire, your life is over. I thought, that’s obviously not true. I’d lived a completely different reality,” says Rickman.  “I grew up knowing that seniors could do anything they wanted to do. So I decided it was important to start showing seniors and elders in a way that demonstrates their ability to do all
sorts of things.”

In fact, Rickman himself began surfing at the age of 50, while trying to photograph senior surfer, Doug Craig. Almost every day, Rickman searches for the biggest wave with his 77-year-old friend, Eve Fletcher.  He hopes to turn the project into a book.

While many photographers are categorized by the type of work they do, it’s safe to say, Rickman is in a league of his own. With all of the accolades of an accomplished photojournalist and commercial photographer, Rickman continues to excel in every aspect of photography. In 1985, he even shared a Pulitzer Prize in spot news photography for his work with The Orange County Register.

To learn more about Rick Rickman, log onto NikonNet’s “Legends Behind the Lens” series at http://www.nikonnet.com/legends.

About “Legends Behind the Lens”:
NikonNet’s “Legends Behind the Lens” series aims to educate users and, in turn, breathe excitement into photography.  Nikon has assembled a comprehensive and intriguing collection of artists to share their most incredible, challenging, emotional and exciting experiences on NikonNet.

This inspiring monthly program offers a behind-the-scenes look into the personalities and philosophies behind the world’s greatest and most famous photographers.  “Legends Behind the Lens” also offers portfolio galleries, with a new photo added each day of the month, as well as tips and tricks of the trade from featured professionals.

Past “Legends” in the series include Kevin Gilbert, Nancy Brown, Joe Buissink, Steven Weinberg, B. Moose Peterson, Eddie Adams, Jay Maisel and Howard Bingham.

About Nikon:
Nikon…If the picture matters, the camera matters(TM).  Nikon Inc. is the world leader in precision optics, 35mm and digital imaging technology and is recognized worldwide for setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional photographic equipment.  Nikon Inc. distributes the Nikon Total Imaging System of consumer and professional 35mm film and digital SLR cameras, Nikkor optics, Speedlights
and System Accessories; 35mm compact cameras; Nikon Coolpix(R) compact digital cameras; Coolscan(R) digital film scanners; Nikonos(R) underwater photographic systems; and Nikon sports and recreational optics.  Through the Nikon Spirit Initiative(TM), the company, plays an active role in supporting aspiring and advanced photographers through a variety of philanthropic organizations, educational programs, events and workshops.  For more information, dial (800) NIKON-US or visit http://www.nikonusa.com, which links all levels of
photographers to the web’s most comprehensive photo learning and sharing communities.