John Running
Photographer
John Running has lived in Flagstaff, Arizona, USA for the past 45 years.
He has been making photographs for advertising, design and editorial clients for over 40 years.
He specializes in photographing people on location or in the studio.
“His photographs stand out because they have a style that is personally creative and graphically strong.
Give him 1/125th of a second and he will give you so much more.”
Running has been photographing the female nude for all of his 40 years as a professional photographer. The women he photographs are both sensual and strong. His photographs are collaboration with his models where there is room for each to express their creativity. His work reminds us that eroticism is yet another culturally laden value that depends on choices made by its consumers to be effective.
7 Questions an interview
with
John Running
When did you become interested in photography?
I have been interested in photography since I was young I carried my Fathers fold up Kodak camera on my first trip across the US when I was 12 and at that time too – I fell in love with the American South West where I live now.
Do you have your own studio or are you most of the time working on location?
I do have my own studio in downtown Flagstaff Arizona. It is a large old building (constructed in 1923) I have a large shooting area, a computer area, a library (lots of erotic books) . I also shoot on location.
Do you have assistance or are you working alone?
When I work with models for nude or erotic shoots I usually work alone. The work is personal and intimate. I do hire assistant when I do commercial work.
Was It easy to find models when you first started photographing nude?
When I first started photographing nudes I asked friends, and dancers from the local university. I would not say finding models is difficult – but it is not too easy. I most often find model locally – but also find them on some model sites like Model Mayhem.
What do you prefer: digital or analog?
I worked with analog cameras, 35mm mostly, and some 5 x5. Now I am totally digital – have been for 5 years – and I embrace it love it
Do you have other artist(s) who you admire and inspire you?
Favorite artists ? I look to Titian and renaissance artists to learn about portraits and light. Klimt and Egon Scheile to learn about artistic erotica. For photographers Paul Strand, Irving Penn, Albert Watson, Peter Beard and Keith Carter.
What is number one on your wishlist?
Wish for ? As I reach age 70 in a couple of months I hope for many more years to work, to make photos. On my list? More coffee. More wine ! More Wine ! More models ! I feel fortunate.
The Works
