Nikon Nation John Wright Interview

John Wright has only become a professional celebrity photographer over the past few years, but his images speak of much more experience. Here, we talk to him about his kit and his images.

John is a photographer who has climbed his way up the rankings, from working as an assistant press photographer for a small syndication company to becoming the in-demand celebrity photographer that he is today. John has racked up quite a portfolio over his four years photographing the biggest stars in music and TV, including the likes of Tom Jones, Lily Allen and the Pet Shop Boys, along with Ant and Dec and well as Gordon Ramsey.

When asked what he believes his success is down to, his drive, and passion for the subject that he loves was at the top of the list, as he explains: "I took good photographs and I showed them to as many people as I could. I never focussed on money or commercial success, I focused on being the best at what I do in the belief that financial reward would follow."


John has used Nikon equipment for many years, and currently sports the D800E. "I use the D800E with grip as my main shoot camera. I back that up with the D4 and D3X depending on the specific circumstances. My lenses range from a 12-24 f/2.8 through to 35mm, 50mm, and 85mm lenses, all f/1.4. I also use a 28-70mm f/2.8 and a 70-200mm f/2.8. I have a 100mm macro and a 200mm f/2 but they don't come out so much. I also use around 6 SB speed lights," he adds.

So, why does this top photographer use Nikon equipment? "I've been a Nikon man for years," explains John. "I've always found the equipment incredibly well put together and 100% reliable. Razor-sharp lenses and a fantastic speed light system. Faultless kit."

John was approached by Nikon UK to take part in the ambassador programme for reasons which John believes include his portfolio of work, which is slightly different from that of the traditional Nikon pro, and his movement into film.

"I'm a long term (Nikon) user and I've always been slightly evangelical about the brand. For me, becoming part of the programme is hugely flattering and rewarding. I feel like I'm playing for the football team I've supported all my life!" says John. 


When asked if having a goal is something all photographers should have if they want to succeed John replied: "My goals have changed so many times. I identify a target or 'goal' and I go after it. When I think I’ve achieved that goal I set another one. 'Fashion and portraiture' is part of the journey so far. Right now my goal is making innovative, entertaining films. So far I've been successful in constantly progressing in what I do, so personally, I'd say clear goals are essential. If you don't know where you want to go, you'll never know when you have, or haven't, arrived."

For more information on John and his work, take a look at his website.