NikonNet Press Release 01/12/04

NikonNet and ‘Legends Behind the Lens’ Honor the Work of Internationally Renowned Photographer Sandro

MELVILLE, N.Y., Dec. 1 /PRNewswire/—It is one thing to capture an image, but a photographer who has the ability to capture the soul of his subject is one worthy of honor.  For over 25 years, world-renowned photographer Sandro, has been doing just that.  Considered to be one of the most successful commercial photographers working today, Sandro’s images have
an ability to capture the personality of the subject through techniques that range from the subtle to the provocative.

This December, NikonNet’s inspiring monthly, “Legends Behind the Lens,” honors the work of award-winning photographer Sandro (His last name is Miller, but he is known professionally by his first name only).  Sandro’s work has appeared in The New Yorker, Time, Newsweek, Forbes, Details, Wired, and ESPN the Magazine, among many others. He has photographed some of the most recognizable images in national advertising campaigns for Allstate Insurance,
American Express, Anheuser-Busch, BMW, Miller Brewing Company, Gatorade, Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Nikon, Microsoft, Nike, Adidas, Champion, and the U.S. Army.

“NikonNet is pleased to honor the images and extraordinary career of Sandro in this December’s ‘Legends Behind the Lens,’” said Tracy Mack-Jackson, senior manager of Internet Development and Programs at Nikon Inc. “Sandro’s work has been the standard of excellence for many years, especially among commercial photographers.  His work continually stands out in the world of commercial photography.”

With numerous awards to his credit, Sandro credits the work of legendary photographer Irving Penn as the catalyst to his career.  “Penn moved me,” says Sandro who first saw Penn’s work at the age of 16.  “He made me fall in love with imagery, with photography. It was the way he captured a person so you almost got to know who that person was in one image.”  That mentality continues to motivate Sandro, an author of three highly acclaimed books and
with three more on the way. His first was a collaboration with Michael Jordan entitled, I Can’t Accept Not Trying.  His second book, entitled American Bikers, features a collection of striking biker portraits. His most recent book is a comprehensive catalog of his work, entitled Sandro Verona: Figure E Ritratti.

In 2001, he embarked on a project to photograph Cuba’s top athletes, including Olympic champions, along with members of the National Cuban Ballet. These experiences have further enhanced Sandro’s reputation as one of the world’s foremost portrait photographers.

To him it all begins with preparation. “You have to be incredibly well prepared,” Sandro says of his approach to his assignments. “I know where I want to go with this person. Often my thought may change, or a little bit of the mood might change, but I have a definite idea at the beginning of where I want to go.”

After preparation, the rest is personality—Sandro’s and the subject’s. “It’s all about ... getting them to really trust you. To do that you have to first be open to them. If you’re looking to get deep into them, go deep into yourself and bring something out from your own heart. Let them know you’re willing to share. There’s an exchange going on-the photographer gets
something, and so does the subject.”

For over 25 years, that exchange and preparation has been the catalyst to one of the most sought-after and recognized commercial photographers in the world.  To learn more about Sandro, 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.