NikonNet Press Release

NikonNet and ‘Legends Behind the Lens’ Honor the Work of Commercial and Fine-Art Photographer Steve Vaccariello

MELVILLE, N.Y., February 1, 2005—There are photographers who are defined by the lengths they go to in order to create the perfect shot. Then there are those who allow simplicity to take the best pictures. Legendary photographer Steve Vaccariello falls into that latter category with a career that echoes one of his own statements, “Photography isn’t what I do. It’s what I am.”

This February, NikonNet’s inspiring monthly, “Legends Behind the Lens,” honors the work of award-winning commercial and fine-art photographer Steve Vaccariello. He has photographed some of the most recognizable images in national advertising campaigns for Sprint PCS, Ritz Carlton Hotels, Sure deodorant, Finlandia vodka, MasterCard, Nikon, and many others.

“NikonNet is pleased to honor the images and extraordinary career of Steve Vaccariello in this February’s ‘Legends Behind the Lens,’” said Tracy Mack-Jackson, senior manager of Internet Development and Programs at Nikon Inc. “Whether shooting for commercial projects or a best-selling book, he is an exceptionally versatile photographer who is able to make images that are both simple and memorable, time and time again.”

It’s this simplicity that sets Vaccariello apart. While he has been internationally acclaimed for his commercial and fine-arts work, Vaccariello has also made a name as an excellent travel photographer. He often travels to Africa to photograph the wildlife and scenery. “My pictures aren’t made to make statements; they’re made to visually stimulate. The eye is made to see, not to think.”

Born in Cleveland, Ohio in 1965, Vaccariello’s award-winning images of the human body have been published in Men’s Health, Fitness, and Gear magazines, as well as in the best-selling book, The Male Nude. With all of the style and technique changes that the industry has taken on, Vaccariello’s work has maintained its excellence by letting the subject speak for itself. “I created a style for myself that wasn’t about fashion. It was about form, composition and lighting. And about simple beauty and capturing a moment of personality on film.”

That focus on the basics has been the catalyst to one of the most sought- after and recognized commercial photographers in the world. To learn more about Steve Vaccariello, 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.