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Episode 8- From The Archive- Interview with John Cornicello
It is important to me to re upload the original interviews from the original podcast episodes because i am proud of what i achieved with it and so i bring to you again the interview with then part of Creativelive John Cornicello
Introduction:
In a recent episode of The Photography Junkie, host Jay had the pleasure of interviewing John Cornicello, the beloved assistant on CreativeLive. In this engaging conversation, Cornicello shared his captivating story of how he discovered his passion for photography and eventually found himself working for CreativeLive, an online platform dedicated to photography education. From his early experiences with film cameras to his transition into the digital world, Cornicello’s journey is an inspiring tale of creativity, growth, and the power of pursuing one’s passion.
The Early Days of Photography:
Cornicello’s fascination with photography began in the early 1970s when a friend introduced him to the world of cameras. A Hanamex Practica with a 50mm lens became his first camera, and he started capturing images for his high school newspaper and yearbook. Interestingly, after many years, Cornicello reconnected with his friend on Facebook, discovering that he would be attending a conference in Seattle. The prospect of reuniting with the person who kickstarted his photography journey was an exciting moment for Cornicello.
From College to Professional Photography:
While Cornicello initially pursued electronic music and synthesizers in college, he found himself drawn to photography once again. Under the guidance of his photography instructor, Ed Scully, Cornicello honed his skills and developed a deep passion for the art form. He immersed himself in the world of photography, working for catalog studios, assisting professional photographers, and eventually establishing his own advertising photography business.
Venturing into the Digital Realm:
With the advent of computers, Cornicello’s path took an unexpected turn. As he began offering computer assistance to clients, his focus gradually shifted from photography to the computer world. His expertise in desktop publishing and typesetting led him to connect with Adobe, where he worked for two decades, primarily in online forums and community management. This transition marked a significant shift in Cornicello’s career, showcasing his adaptability and willingness to embrace new technologies.
Embracing the Digital Revolution:
When digital cameras entered the market, Cornicello eagerly embraced the switch from film to digital. He vividly recalls his experiences with early digital cameras, starting with a Hanamex camera with a meager 0.9-megapixel resolution. Despite the initial limitations, Cornicello’s passion for photography was reignited when he purchased the Canon D30, which allowed him to create high-quality prints. Subsequently, he embarked on a journey of upgrading his gear with cameras like the Canon D60, 1D Mark II, 40D, 5D series, and 6D.
Loyalty to Canon and Beyond:
Cornicello’s loyalty to the Canon brand has remained unwavering since his early days in photography. His decision to stick with Canon was driven by various factors, including his familiarity with the brand, the EOS line’s technical advantages, and personal comfort with Canon cameras’ ergonomics. However, he acknowledges that different camera brands have made significant strides, and photographers should choose equipment that suits their preferences and workflow.
Nostalgia for the Analog Days:
While fully embracing the digital age, Cornicello admits to occasionally missing the days of film photography. He still retains a collection of film cameras, including a 5×10 Deardor field camera, and reminisces about the process of capturing images on film. Cornicello’s appreciation for film photography extends to the desire to educate others about its unique qualities, leading him to consider writing a book that delves into the intricacies of analog photography.
Conclusion: John Cornicello’s journey through photography is a testament to the evolving nature of the craft and the power of adaptation.
Check out Johns work here
