Melville, N.Y. – Nikon launched Tuesday its Nikon Ambassador Program, billed as “a collective initiative dedicated to recognizing the most influential leaders in modern photography.”
The diverse group of individuals “has shown a commitment to empowering photographers with knowledge, providing guidance for the imaging community and a mastery of technology and trends,” Nikon said.
In a statement the company said the program will it anticipate the needs of professional customers, while paying homage to some of the best photographers today.
Mike Corrado, Nikon NPS manager, pro relations and product marketing, said, “While we know the program will evolve and grow, the core ideas will never change; the Nikon Ambassadors exist to communicate the needs of the working pro to Nikon, as an outlet for their honest thoughts about the direction of the industry, to help photographers thrive in their business, and inspire others to pick up a camera and shoot.”
The Ambassador Program will create a mutually beneficial collective to help bolster the photo industry and individuals.
Ambassador/mentors will use their experience to empower photographers through education and inspiration, Nikon said.
All skill levels will benefit from the teachings and guidance, the company said.
Topics could range from shooting and marketing a studio, to social media and running a successful imaging business.
Ambassadors will help to equip new generations of professionals with the tools and knowledge to succeed, Nikon said.
Additionally, the Ambassadors will work directly with Nikon to communicate the needs of the evolving photo industry, with feedback on a broad range of topics that affect photographers today, including workflow, service and product.
Ambassadors must be considered among the most talented and influential visual artists working in the business today, Nikon said.
“This elite group consists of gifted, spirited storytellers who are admired for their passion, energy and commitment to their craft,” the company said.
Ambassadors represent a vast array of backgrounds and shooting disciplines that reflect the breadth of professional photographers; including wedding /portraiture, fashion, wildlife, sports, adventure and multimedia. 2013 Nikon Ambassadors’ List:
James Balog, nature/landscape/conservation
Dave Black, sports/commercial
Dixie Dixon, commercial fashion
Bill Frakes, sports/multimedia journalist
Jerry Ghionis, wedding/portrait
Lucas Gilman, adventure/multimedia
Andrew Hancock, commercial/sports
Robin Layton, fine art/portrait/animals
Ron Magill, wildlife/zoologist
Cliff Mautner, wedding/portrait
Joe McNally, commercial journalist
Sandro Miller, commercial/filmmaker
B. Moose Peterson, wildlife/aviation
Corey Rich, adventure/multimedia/film
Vincent Versace, fine art/landscape/commercial
Ami Vitale, multimedia journalist.
