RIP Stephen Hicks ..... - Page 2 - GoFuckYourself.com

ReggieDurango · 02-07-2013, 10:31 PM

RIP Stephen. Didn't know you personally but definitely knew and respected your work

The Porn Nerd · 02-07-2013, 10:53 PM

One of, if not THE, greatest photographers who ever lived.

R.I.P.

Sad day.

Shap · 02-08-2013, 01:54 AM

Jay how can I reach you? Stephen meant a lot to me and if I can help out the fam if like to

Angelicion · 02-08-2013, 02:06 AM

Hello,

I wish to express my sincere condolences to his family & friends. He is one of my favorite photographer if not my favorite. He truly knew how to show a model's natural beauty in a natural way as well as in a natural setting. May his legacy live on forever through his featured works on Digital Desire and on other sites.

Kind Regards,
Angelicion

rayadp05 · 02-08-2013, 02:23 AM

Sorry to hear about that. I never met the guy, but from reading the comments here, he must have been a great guy.

RIP Stephen Hicks.

Red Ezra · 02-08-2013, 03:42 AM

My condolences to friends and family - The industry lost a very talented artist.

Shap · 02-08-2013, 05:05 AM

I've been thinking all night and morning about this. Still doesn't seem real. Stephen left me with so many little gems of wisdom. After every call or meeting with him I always felt I came away with some knowledge about the world that I didn't have before. Not so much about business but about being a good person and a great family man. We had great talks about our kids. I feel our chats help shape the type of father I am to my children. Stephen often came to mind and I'm sad I didn't reach out and email him often. I hope in some way I was able to give back a little to him as well. He gave me a lot more than just a great business relationship.

R.I.P. Brotha!

Mutt · 02-08-2013, 05:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JuicyBunny

Brilliant eye and a love for women that showed.

This. You see it in his photos. I say it all the time, a girl will never look as good as she does in a Stephen Hicks photo. He could shoot the glossy glam, he started out as a young photographer at Playboy but his gift was what he did with natural light, painting the girl next door in his own style with the help of his amazing makeup/hair lady. I sought Stephen out when I got into this business, he was the only name in adult I respected, I had gone through my teens with my stash of Penthouse magazines and his girls and photography were way different than the rest, dream girls, fantasy girls, but always real, never crossing over into the corny glam the others did.

Stephen was an unabashed 'white knight' kind of photographer. When Stephen and I first met online we were kindred spirits when it came to the models. Over the years as I had more to do with models I hardened, , he never did. I know there were agents and producers who weren't fans of Stephen's ways, he would subtlely and not so subtlely counsel girls not to advance into boy/girl hardcore. I'd question it to myself - he was shooting girls masturbating and girl/girl sex, what's the difference? I think it just came down to Stephen being old fashioned and fatherly, he knew most of these girls enter
this industry do so because of something missing in their lives. And he knew that most would move on past porn quickly and their lives would change and boy/girl hardcore carries a stigma that solo and girl/girl don't, not as much anyway. He told me that he would tell his crew, his young assistant photographers 'I assume that every girl who walks through our door is broken in some way, let's enjoy our time together and let them go, don't get involved' paraphrasing of course since it's nearly 10 years ago he said it to me.

I sent him a young girl from Kansas in 2005, Ashley Brookes. In those days the magazines were still going strong and Stephen kept her in LA for a full week of shooting. After his first day of shooting her, an email arrived late that night, a long email. He was blown away by the girl, his enthusiasm and excitement jumped off the page and so grateful I had sent her his way. He wrote about the experience in his blog on DDGirls, later renamed Digital Desire because the assholes from Dreamgirls.com had trademarked the name and were ready to sue. He had found a true dreamgirl in Ashley, he waxed poetic
about her. I am sure Ashley remembers her week at Stephen's with fondness and when she's a grandma one day she'll have the gorgeous captures Stephen took of her at 21.

As his death sets in I feel worse. I don't know his family, I don't know any of his crew so can't even pass on my condolences. He has two teenaged kids, now without their dad and he must have been a great dad, I remember him taking them off to some exotic adventure one Christmas vacation, I think New Zealand.

He was the ultimate 'good guy' in this industry. I worried about him, at an age when I'm sure he planned to be slowing down, the shit this industry turned into forced him to work harder than he ever had.

Stephen and Ashley from I think February or March of 2005.

Shap · 02-08-2013, 05:43 AM

I agree 100% Mutt! You and I have always felt the same about Stephen.

GenesisEditor · 02-08-2013, 06:59 AM

Coming into the office this morning and hearing this news is truly sad. Having worked with Stephen for the last 15 years starting with Genesis and recently with Club, he was truly one of the nicest guys in the biz to deal with and easily the best natural light shooter in my opinion. He will truly be missed, not only as a talent in the industry, but as a human being. Our deepest sympathies from myself and everyone at Magna Publishing

TisMe · 02-08-2013, 07:35 AM

He taught without even knowing it. Just watching him work was an education and when he put down the camera the lessons got even more interesting.

RIP and condolences to his family and friends.

Mutt · 02-08-2013, 07:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TisMe

He taught without even knowing it. Just watching him work was an education and when he put down the camera the lessons got even more interesting.

RIP and condolences to his family and friends.

you worked for him?

TisMe · 02-08-2013, 08:02 AM

No, I was lucky enough to be able to spend some time with him.

OldJeff · 02-08-2013, 08:13 AM

RIP to a master of the camera......................

usnuke · 02-08-2013, 08:28 AM

Thoughts with his family and friends. RIP .

Mutt · 02-08-2013, 08:39 AM

Nice and true words from Holly Randall

"Today I learned some incredibly sad news- that J Stephen Hicks, a legend in his own right, passed away. Hicks was a photographer from my mother?s generation, renowned for his glamour work and published alongside my mother in magazines such a Penthouse, Club, and Hustler. He went to school at Brooks Institute of Photography, a school I attended myself a few decades later.

You could always pick a Hicks photo out from the crowd- he was a master at harnessing natural light. While I sometimes feel like I?m at war with the sun, Stephen manipulated and seduced it to a point where it seemed to bend to his will. There were many times I?d look at his photos and think ?How on earth did he light it like that?? And then I?d see a BTS photo of the setup and I?d think ?How on earth did he light it with what appears to be such a simple set-up?? It was obvious that Stephen was a master of his craft.

The models loved him. I always heard wonderful things about Hicks and his team: how much fun they were to work with, how they treated their models with respect and kindness- how they bbq?d for their models on set and then all jumped in the pool after the day had wrapped. It always seemed like it was a party to work with the people at Digital Desire.

When people ask me who my biggest competitor is, without hesitation it has always been Stephen Hicks. There?s no denying that we competed over models, over magazine layouts, over jobs and over website members. But I say that with the utmost respect- and I?m not ashamed to say that Hicks beat me at the game many, many times. He had a knack for discovering unknown beauties first, and his work is extremely marketable. He kept his sets and outfits simple, his lighting sometimes moody, sometimes light and airy, but it was always beautiful. His attention to detail was impeccable- if a girl had a thick waist, or a bad boob job, you?d never know if you saw her photos on Digital Desire. There were a few times I booked a model off of photos that Hicks had taken of her, only to have her walk in and look nothing like the bombshell in her photos. Those were the times that I secretly cursed his talent. ;)

Hicks was a true artist. He was able to create photos (and video) that walked that precarious line between graphic and artistic, creating real erotic art. That is a goal many strive for, but few fail to achieve. The passion he had for his job is evident in his massive body of work.

I have only met Hicks once, but I know his team: JP, Jay Allan, Charles Lightfoot, and Mark Lit. They are all wonderful guys and I know had a great deal of respect for their mentor. My heart goes out to them as I can only imagine how much they are grieving right now. I also send my deepest condolences to Stephen?s family.

The world had lost a great artist. In the business world, J Stephen Hicks may have been my competitor, but in reality I am also one of his greatest fans. May he rest in peace."

MichaelAncher · 02-08-2013, 08:52 AM

I'm so sad to hear this... I meet Stephen long time ago on my first trip to Los Angelse, think it was in '84.
A young enthusiastic photographer who was ready to conquer the world, he knew how to create a sensual image from nothing. He was a big inspiration to me, and many others. He will be missed ... R.I.P :-(

Black All Through · 02-08-2013, 08:55 AM

R.I.P. Stephen

Vegas Ken · 02-08-2013, 09:33 AM

My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.

Hopefully he is running around with a smile on his face and taking
photos of angels up in heaven as we speak and he realizes how much he
was loved and will be missed.

Jay-Rock · 02-08-2013, 09:43 AM

Just watching him and his crew work changed the way I shoot and I have used that knowledge to this day. He was always very willing to share knowledge and I have always thought of him a a legend. His work will live on forever. RIP buddy!

aimeesweet · 02-08-2013, 09:43 AM

My heart goes out to his family... He was such an amazing photographer and truly a great guy... he will be sadly missed.

Ramster · 02-08-2013, 10:33 AM

Definitely horrible news when I heard this yesterday. He shot for us on many fronts and as many said was a legend and master at his work.

RIP Stephen!

Shap · 02-08-2013, 11:13 AM

Weird thing happened. I was searching for Stephen Hicks on twitter last night to see if I could find anything on it. This morning someone named Stephen Hicks started following me on Twitter. Very eery.

JayAllan · 02-08-2013, 11:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Shap

Jay how can I reach you? Stephen meant a lot to me and if I can help out the fam if like to

Call my cel 818 679-7576

Shap · 02-08-2013, 11:40 AM

I would say from a business/industry standpoint as important as his photographic contribution is probably the sheer number of photographers that are in this business thanks to Stephen. I would say 85% of the LA photographers we worked with had either started with Stephen or at some point worked as an assistant for him. I'm sure he shared a lot of valuable knowledge with them. He wasn't one to hold back. He liked helping people.

Shap · 02-08-2013, 11:47 AM

Just saw a few recent pics of Stephen

Big smile full of life. So sad

DeanCapture · 02-08-2013, 12:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Shap

I would say from a business/industry standpoint as important as his photographic contribution is probably the sheer number of photographers that are in this business thanks to Stephen. I would say 85% of the LA photographers we worked with had either started with Stephen or at some point worked as an assistant for him. I'm sure he shared a lot of valuable knowledge with them. He wasn't one to hold back. He liked helping people.

So true. I worked with Stephen in 2001 as photo-assistant and photo-retoucher and it was one of the best experiences I've ever had working for another person. I never picked his brain about photography but learned a lot just being there and watching him work his magic. Sad day for the glam/nude industry today

Evil Chris · 02-08-2013, 02:11 PM

Only met him once or twice over the years. Really nice man, and definitely gone too soon.

No denying his talent either. He'll be missed by many. RIP.

James · 02-08-2013, 02:54 PM

Some great words for in here regarding who Stephen was and what he stood for. Jay, Mutt, Shap and Dean, thank you for these insights.

I myself never had the pleasure of meeting Stephen but I've followed his career as best I could. He's been a major influence and inspiration in my own photography along the way.

We've truly lost one of the pioneers. He will be missed.

marcop · 02-08-2013, 04:40 PM

I always really liked his work. His models look real and desirable... I'm so disappointed when I see photos of girls here and other places (e.g., MM) where the skin tones are radioactive orange and smoothing software makes the girl's body look almost like a mannequin... this seems to have become a norm for certain kinds of adult internet images.

Stephen's work always looked effortless--the hallmark of a true master.

Why · 02-08-2013, 07:12 PM

RIP Stephan, my favorite photographer by far.

JohnE · 02-08-2013, 07:13 PM

I just had to laugh from something Holly Randall said. Its so true. For many photographers who had to go head to head with Stephan's work- I mean shooting the same model either before or after he shot her- then comparing it to our own, usually in shame, for what he was able to capture: the natural beauty, sexuality, the colors and poses he was able to pull from the same girl- was a regular occurrence. Getting bested by Stephan Hicks was just part of industry. It made us not only envious of his talents but also pushed us to be better photographers ourselves.

There are some very nice things said here about Stephan personally. But his work was the pace car for the nude photographer. He didn't set the bar. The bar he set was very often out of reach. But I was glad it was there and Ill miss it now its gone.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mutt

Nice and true words from Holly Randall

"Today I learned some incredibly sad news- that J Stephen Hicks, a legend in his own right, passed away. Hicks was a photographer from my mother?s generation, renowned for his glamour work and published alongside my mother in magazines such a Penthouse, Club, and Hustler. He went to school at Brooks Institute of Photography, a school I attended myself a few decades later.

You could always pick a Hicks photo out from the crowd- he was a master at harnessing natural light. While I sometimes feel like I?m at war with the sun, Stephen manipulated and seduced it to a point where it seemed to bend to his will. There were many times I?d look at his photos and think ?How on earth did he light it like that?? And then I?d see a BTS photo of the setup and I?d think ?How on earth did he light it with what appears to be such a simple set-up?? It was obvious that Stephen was a master of his craft.

The models loved him. I always heard wonderful things about Hicks and his team: how much fun they were to work with, how they treated their models with respect and kindness- how they bbq?d for their models on set and then all jumped in the pool after the day had wrapped. It always seemed like it was a party to work with the people at Digital Desire.

When people ask me who my biggest competitor is, without hesitation it has always been Stephen Hicks. There?s no denying that we competed over models, over magazine layouts, over jobs and over website members. But I say that with the utmost respect- and I?m not ashamed to say that Hicks beat me at the game many, many times. He had a knack for discovering unknown beauties first, and his work is extremely marketable. He kept his sets and outfits simple, his lighting sometimes moody, sometimes light and airy, but it was always beautiful. His attention to detail was impeccable- if a girl had a thick waist, or a bad boob job, you?d never know if you saw her photos on Digital Desire. There were a few times I booked a model off of photos that Hicks had taken of her, only to have her walk in and look nothing like the bombshell in her photos. Those were the times that I secretly cursed his talent. ;)

Hicks was a true artist. He was able to create photos (and video) that walked that precarious line between graphic and artistic, creating real erotic art. That is a goal many strive for, but few fail to achieve. The passion he had for his job is evident in his massive body of work.

I have only met Hicks once, but I know his team: JP, Jay Allan, Charles Lightfoot, and Mark Lit. They are all wonderful guys and I know had a great deal of respect for their mentor. My heart goes out to them as I can only imagine how much they are grieving right now. I also send my deepest condolences to Stephen?s family.

The world had lost a great artist. In the business world, J Stephen Hicks may have been my competitor, but in reality I am also one of his greatest fans. May he rest in peace."

SexKey Scott · 02-08-2013, 07:28 PM

Condolences to his friends and family.

PornDiscounts-V · 02-08-2013, 08:11 PM

Inspiring guy. His legend will live on.

gabe100 · 02-08-2013, 09:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by vvvvv

Inspiring guy. His legend will live on.

ArielRebel · 02-08-2013, 09:07 PM

RIP.... this is so sad

Imortyl Pussycat · 02-08-2013, 10:34 PM

very sad that we lost a legend

my deepest condolences to his friends, family and our entire industry for this loss. RIP Stephen

Mutt · 02-09-2013, 06:45 AM

He passed on his knowledge to many photographers who worked for and with him, the Stephen Hicks tree will bear fruit for many years to come. Mark Lit was his top assistant and admittedly I'm a layman but Mark's photography is very similar to Stephen's.

adendreams · 02-09-2013, 07:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JohnE

The bar he set was very often out of reach. But I was glad it was there and Ill miss it now its gone.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mutt

He passed on his knowledge to many photographers who worked for and with him, the Stephen Hicks tree will bear fruit for many years to come. Mark Lit was his top assistant and admittedly I'm a layman but Mark's photography is very similar to Stephen's.

Mark Lit is much more than an assistant, Mark has been the principal photographer for DD for many years...and also a great fuckin guy. The bar they are setting is still there and will remain thanks to Stephen's tutelage of Mark and crew.

The nice thing about Stephens legacy is that, like the great master painters of the renaissance, he passed his techniques on to apprentices - who then took the torch and carried on. As many in the art world know, many of the great masterpieces, even some that sell for millions of dollars, were actually painted by apprentices.

Digital Desire images are indeed masterpieces and it doesn't matter if Mark or Stephen or Charles Lightfoot was pushing the shutter at the time the image was taken - the credit and the glory is Stephen's and he should endure as the greatest Photog in this era/genre. Like has been said before in this thread, those of us who shoot the same girls either before or after can really appreciate just how much BETTER the DD Crew can make them look. He will be sorely missed.

I had the pleasure of knowing Stephen over a 20 year span and it was always fun to hang at Hicks Ranch (and before that Washington Blvd.) and see the level of professionalism and just great vibe he created on his sets - he's one of the few I wouldn't hesitate to bring my best girls to - they always came away with a good experience and a check for a grand. The dude just did things better, he did it right, and there are precious few I can say that about. He will be sorely missed.

02-09-2013, 09:34 AM

As an Artist, I have always admired Stephen's creative eye! He saw the natural beauty of a woman, so amazingly and was able to have that translate to us as we looked on in sheer delight with his results! In an email I sent him a couple years ago, I told him that I have 2 books that I use as inspirational reference in my studio. Essential Picasso & SUPERBEAUTY by J Stehen Hicks. He answered back that he felt honored to be in the company of Picasso. Well, I believe it should be the other way around and that Picasso should be the one that feels honored to be in the company of Mr. Hicks!
My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife and kids and of course to his extended family at the ranch and here on gfy!

SplitInfinity · 02-09-2013, 12:31 PM

Im still shocked about this. I cant get it out of my head. He was literally one of the first people I respected in this industry and I am dumbfounded by his passing. Does anyone know what caused his untimely death?

Mutt · 02-09-2013, 02:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SplitInfinity

Im still shocked about this. I cant get it out of my head. He was literally one of the first people I respected in this industry and I am dumbfounded by his passing. Does anyone know what caused his untimely death?

Me neither, keep thinking about it, just don't expect somebody like him in top shape for a guy his age to die.

They are doing an autopsy, complications from a fairly minor surgery

Mutt · 02-10-2013, 11:11 AM

Dear Valued Members,

This news comes with a heavy heart. J. Stephen Hicks passed away on February 6, 2013. He was 58 years old. Stephen had been dealing with health issues for the last few years. He is survived by his wife and two children.

The famed photographer helped change the face of nude photography through his flagship website www.digitaldesire.com. He also worked in the past at both Playboy and Penthouse. His visual style is synonymous with quality and excellence, and was a true pioneer in the world of soft-core erotic photography.

Digital Desire will continue to operate business as usual under the guidance of Lani Hicks and the watchful lens of Mr. Hicks? protégés extraordinaire and photographers Mark Lit and Charles Lightfoot. Mrs. Hicks has been involved in all phases of the company since the beginning while Mark has been Digital Desire?s lead photographer and production point man since 2005. All the key components are firmly in place to keep J. Stephen?s vision alive and well moving into the future.

Sincerely,

The Hicks family

Warren · 02-10-2013, 11:22 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mutt

Dear Valued Members,

This news comes with a heavy heart. J. Stephen Hicks passed away on February 6, 2013. He was 58 years old. Stephen had been dealing with health issues for the last few years. He is survived by his wife and two children.

The famed photographer helped change the face of nude photography through his flagship website www.digitaldesire.com. He also worked in the past at both Playboy and Penthouse. His visual style is synonymous with quality and excellence, and was a true pioneer in the world of soft-core erotic photography.

Digital Desire will continue to operate business as usual under the guidance of Lani Hicks and the watchful lens of Mr. Hicks? protégés extraordinaire and photographers Mark Lit and Charles Lightfoot. Mrs. Hicks has been involved in all phases of the company since the beginning while Mark has been Digital Desire?s lead photographer and production point man since 2005. All the key components are firmly in place to keep J. Stephen?s vision alive and well moving into the future.

Sincerely,

The Hicks family

Still cant believe it, I always sent girls to him first as I knew he would look after them, in return he would give me pics for promotion reasons as I never wanted monetary compensation.

We often talked about the low life's in the biz and We both tried to steer new girls away from hardcore stuff and douche bag agents.

Rip: My friend, will miss you greatly.

fris · 02-10-2013, 11:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DeanCapture

I heard today that Stephen has passed.

A legend, a friend and a mentor for many years.

I'm still in shock

rip steven.

on another note i sent you an email regarding glamateur

InfoGuy · 02-10-2013, 02:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mutt

Dear Valued Members,

This news comes with a heavy heart. J. Stephen Hicks passed away on February 6, 2013. He was 58 years old. Stephen had been dealing with health issues for the last few years. He is survived by his wife and two children.

The famed photographer helped change the face of nude photography through his flagship website www.digitaldesire.com. He also worked in the past at both Playboy and Penthouse. His visual style is synonymous with quality and excellence, and was a true pioneer in the world of soft-core erotic photography.

Digital Desire will continue to operate business as usual under the guidance of Lani Hicks and the watchful lens of Mr. Hicks? protégés extraordinaire and photographers Mark Lit and Charles Lightfoot. Mrs. Hicks has been involved in all phases of the company since the beginning while Mark has been Digital Desire?s lead photographer and production point man since 2005. All the key components are firmly in place to keep J. Stephen?s vision alive and well moving into the future.

Sincerely,

The Hicks family

RIP Stephen Hicks.

Perhaps the best tribute the GFY community can give him is send more traffic to Digital Desire to help his family and crew.

Buzz_Aziani · 02-11-2013, 10:17 AM

My condolences to family and friends. I have always looked up to his work. This is a great loss. RIP

JP-pornshooter · 02-11-2013, 11:58 AM

Very sorry to learn of this sad news.
Great to see so many come out and talk highly of the man, not just as a photographer but as a human.
Respect and condolences.

ezrajulesjordanvideo · 02-15-2013, 01:14 AM

Very shocking news to me. Stephen was a pleasure to work for. I worked for him in the early 2000s when his offices were in Culver City. The last time I spoke to him was in 2009 I think. He would always make fun of me on how horrible I ate back then. He always ate very healthy. He was very physical fit. Its just so shocking that this happened. I am going to try and reach out to Zach over there in the morning. My condolences go out to his family, friends, and employees

AsianDivaGirlsWebDude · 02-15-2013, 03:01 AM

Quote:

Malibu Mourns Loss of Stephen Hicks

J. Stephen Hicks died Wednesday at his Malibu home on Point Dume. He leaves behind a wife and two teenage children.

J. Stephen Hicks, a well known photographer and 19-year Malibu resident, died this week. He was 58.

A celebration of life will take place at 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 23 at the Sunset Restaurant, 6800 Westward Beach Road in Malibu.

The family and close friends released the following obituary:

Stephen was a force of life -- adventurous, inquisitive, passionate, inexhaustible, kind, loving, empathetic, and most importantly, a true and lifelong companion to all those lucky enough to cross his path. His wit, insight, compassion, and boundless love will never be forgotten.

Stephen was an acclaimed photographer, an avid traveler, surfer and mountain biker, who called his beloved Malibu home for 19 years. He was a loving husband and a committed father, whose happiest, most contented moments were spent with his family, wife Lani, son Ryder, 18, and daughter Kailee, 15, who survive him. But Stephen came most alive bobbing in the early morning surf in Malibu and Mexico, mountain biking in the coastal trails above his home, photographing nature in all its glory, power and mystery.

Stephen was a model friend. He listened, advised, aided and was always there when anyone needed him. His character was strong, unwavering, unimpeachable. He never judged but he always loved.

Stephen had a restless soul and an ever-growing curiosity about the world. From Bhutan to Africa, South America to Asia, Europe to Mexico, he sought new cultures, new experiences, new canvases for his unequaled nature photography. His passing has left an immeasurable void in those who loved him. But all our lives are richer and more complete for having been touched by his life and love.

The son of the late Joseph Wendall Hicks and Fletta June Stroud, Stephen was born in Denver, Colo. He was a 1972 graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School and attended the University of Colorado. In the late 1970s, he found his way to Santa Barbara, where he attended and was graduated from the Brooks Institute, with a degree in photography.

In lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations be made to either the Surfrider Foundation or Heal the Bay or The John Wayne Cancer Foundation.

Quote:

?Life is an opportunity, benefit from it.
Life is beauty, admire it.
Life is a dream, realize it.
Life is a challenge, meet it.
Life is a duty, complete it.
Life is a game, play it.
Life is a promise, fulfill it.
Life is sorrow, overcome it.
Life is a song, sing it.
Life is a struggle, accept it.
Life is a tragedy, confront it.
Life is an adventure, dare it.
Life is luck, make it.
Life is too precious, do not destroy it.
Life is life, fight for it.?

― Mother Teresa

ADG

02-07-2013, 10:53 PM	#52
The Porn Nerd Living The Dream Industry Role: Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Inside a Monitor Posts: 19,496	One of, if not THE, greatest photographers who ever lived. R.I.P. Sad day. __________________ My Affiliate Programs: Porn Nerd Cash \| Porn Showcase \| Aggressive Gold Over 90 paysites to promote! Skype: peabodymedia

02-08-2013, 02:06 AM	#54
Angelicion Registered User Industry Role: Join Date: Jan 2013 Posts: 73	Hello, I wish to express my sincere condolences to his family & friends. He is one of my favorite photographer if not my favorite. He truly knew how to show a model's natural beauty in a natural way as well as in a natural setting. May his legacy live on forever through his featured works on Digital Desire and on other sites. Kind Regards, Angelicion __________________

02-08-2013, 02:23 AM	#55
rayadp05 TRUEAMATEURMODELS.COM Industry Role: Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: TrueAmateurModels.com Posts: 4,187	Sorry to hear about that. I never met the guy, but from reading the comments here, he must have been a great guy. RIP Stephen Hicks. __________________ TrueAmateurModels.com Twitter TrueAmateurModels.com Affiliate Program Last edited by rayadp05; 02-08-2013 at 02:24 AM..

02-08-2013, 08:13 AM	#64
OldJeff Big Fucking hahahaha Industry Role: Join Date: Feb 2003 Posts: 1,963	RIP to a master of the camera...................... __________________ "As pornographers we must act responsibly! ;))"- Nickatilynx "I kinda like it when a lot of people die"-George Carlin DEI = Don Jr., Eric, and Ivanka

02-08-2013, 08:39 AM	#66
Mutt Too lazy to set a custom title Industry Role: Join Date: Sep 2002 Posts: 34,431	Nice and true words from Holly Randall "Today I learned some incredibly sad news- that J Stephen Hicks, a legend in his own right, passed away. Hicks was a photographer from my mother?s generation, renowned for his glamour work and published alongside my mother in magazines such a Penthouse, Club, and Hustler. He went to school at Brooks Institute of Photography, a school I attended myself a few decades later. You could always pick a Hicks photo out from the crowd- he was a master at harnessing natural light. While I sometimes feel like I?m at war with the sun, Stephen manipulated and seduced it to a point where it seemed to bend to his will. There were many times I?d look at his photos and think ?How on earth did he light it like that?? And then I?d see a BTS photo of the setup and I?d think ?How on earth did he light it with what appears to be such a simple set-up?? It was obvious that Stephen was a master of his craft. The models loved him. I always heard wonderful things about Hicks and his team: how much fun they were to work with, how they treated their models with respect and kindness- how they bbq?d for their models on set and then all jumped in the pool after the day had wrapped. It always seemed like it was a party to work with the people at Digital Desire. When people ask me who my biggest competitor is, without hesitation it has always been Stephen Hicks. There?s no denying that we competed over models, over magazine layouts, over jobs and over website members. But I say that with the utmost respect- and I?m not ashamed to say that Hicks beat me at the game many, many times. He had a knack for discovering unknown beauties first, and his work is extremely marketable. He kept his sets and outfits simple, his lighting sometimes moody, sometimes light and airy, but it was always beautiful. His attention to detail was impeccable- if a girl had a thick waist, or a bad boob job, you?d never know if you saw her photos on Digital Desire. There were a few times I booked a model off of photos that Hicks had taken of her, only to have her walk in and look nothing like the bombshell in her photos. Those were the times that I secretly cursed his talent. ;) Hicks was a true artist. He was able to create photos (and video) that walked that precarious line between graphic and artistic, creating real erotic art. That is a goal many strive for, but few fail to achieve. The passion he had for his job is evident in his massive body of work. I have only met Hicks once, but I know his team: JP, Jay Allan, Charles Lightfoot, and Mark Lit. They are all wonderful guys and I know had a great deal of respect for their mentor. My heart goes out to them as I can only imagine how much they are grieving right now. I also send my deepest condolences to Stephen?s family. The world had lost a great artist. In the business world, J Stephen Hicks may have been my competitor, but in reality I am also one of his greatest fans. May he rest in peace." __________________ I moved my sites to Vacares Hosting. I've saved money, my hair is thicker, lost some weight too! Thanks Sly!

02-07-2013, 10:31 PM	#51
ReggieDurango Confirmed User Industry Role: Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: California Posts: 4,761	RIP Stephen. Didn't know you personally but definitely knew and respected your work

02-08-2013, 01:54 AM	#53
Shap Confirmed User Industry Role: Join Date: May 2001 Posts: 8,313	Jay how can I reach you? Stephen meant a lot to me and if I can help out the fam if like to

02-08-2013, 03:42 AM	#56
Red Ezra redezra.com Industry Role: Join Date: May 2004 Location: Vegas Baby! Posts: 4,680	My condolences to friends and family - The industry lost a very talented artist.

02-08-2013, 05:05 AM	#57
Shap Confirmed User Industry Role: Join Date: May 2001 Posts: 8,313	I've been thinking all night and morning about this. Still doesn't seem real. Stephen left me with so many little gems of wisdom. After every call or meeting with him I always felt I came away with some knowledge about the world that I didn't have before. Not so much about business but about being a good person and a great family man. We had great talks about our kids. I feel our chats help shape the type of father I am to my children. Stephen often came to mind and I'm sad I didn't reach out and email him often. I hope in some way I was able to give back a little to him as well. He gave me a lot more than just a great business relationship. R.I.P. Brotha!

02-08-2013, 05:43 AM	#59
Shap Confirmed User Industry Role: Join Date: May 2001 Posts: 8,313	I agree 100% Mutt! You and I have always felt the same about Stephen.

02-08-2013, 06:59 AM	#60
GenesisEditor Registered User Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: NJ Posts: 2	Coming into the office this morning and hearing this news is truly sad. Having worked with Stephen for the last 15 years starting with Genesis and recently with Club, he was truly one of the nicest guys in the biz to deal with and easily the best natural light shooter in my opinion. He will truly be missed, not only as a talent in the industry, but as a human being. Our deepest sympathies from myself and everyone at Magna Publishing

02-08-2013, 07:35 AM	#61
TisMe Confirmed User Join Date: Aug 2008 Posts: 1,719	He taught without even knowing it. Just watching him work was an education and when he put down the camera the lessons got even more interesting. RIP and condolences to his family and friends.

02-08-2013, 08:02 AM	#63
TisMe Confirmed User Join Date: Aug 2008 Posts: 1,719	No, I was lucky enough to be able to spend some time with him.

02-08-2013, 08:28 AM	#65
usnuke Registered User Join Date: Mar 2009 Posts: 40	Thoughts with his family and friends. RIP .

02-08-2013, 08:52 AM	#67
MichaelAncher Confirmed User Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Prague Posts: 742	I'm so sad to hear this... I meet Stephen long time ago on my first trip to Los Angelse, think it was in '84. A young enthusiastic photographer who was ready to conquer the world, he knew how to create a sensual image from nothing. He was a big inspiration to me, and many others. He will be missed ... R.I.P :-( __________________ GlamourGirls...HQ 2257 Compliant Glamour Photo and Video Content, for Web - Mobile and TV !! Profiles: XBIZ - AdultWhosWho \| ICQ 179004915

02-08-2013, 08:55 AM	#68
Black All Through Confirmed User Industry Role: Join Date: Oct 2010 Location: US Posts: 2,078	R.I.P. Stephen __________________ I want to buy contextual links on quality blogs For both Adult and mainstream niche - Small to massive packages

02-08-2013, 09:33 AM	#69
Vegas Ken Confirmed User Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Las Vegas Posts: 4,151	My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. Hopefully he is running around with a smile on his face and taking photos of angels up in heaven as we speak and he realizes how much he was loved and will be missed. __________________ Skype: vegas_ken

02-08-2013, 09:43 AM	#70
Jay-Rock Confirmed User Industry Role: Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: Porn Valley Posts: 2,779	Just watching him and his crew work changed the way I shoot and I have used that knowledge to this day. He was always very willing to share knowledge and I have always thought of him a a legend. His work will live on forever. RIP buddy! __________________ HD and 4k Content Production by JayRock http://jayspov.net http://blackforwife.com http://cospimps.com SKYPE JAYROCKCONTENT [email protected] Twitter @jayrockcontent

02-08-2013, 09:43 AM	#71
aimeesweet Confirmed User Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: Southern California Posts: 2,917	My heart goes out to his family... He was such an amazing photographer and truly a great guy... he will be sadly missed.

02-08-2013, 10:33 AM	#72
Ramster Confirmed User Industry Role: Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Ottawa, Canada Posts: 1,447	Definitely horrible news when I heard this yesterday. He shot for us on many fronts and as many said was a legend and master at his work. RIP Stephen! __________________ Fcuk Cash - Backroom Casting Couch, ExCoGi, BlackAmbush DarkReach Cash - Top Pornstars & Sites Skype: robmurray999 Email: rob-at-paysitemanagers.com

02-08-2013, 11:13 AM	#73
Shap Confirmed User Industry Role: Join Date: May 2001 Posts: 8,313	Weird thing happened. I was searching for Stephen Hicks on twitter last night to see if I could find anything on it. This morning someone named Stephen Hicks started following me on Twitter. Very eery.

02-08-2013, 11:40 AM	#75
Shap Confirmed User Industry Role: Join Date: May 2001 Posts: 8,313	I would say from a business/industry standpoint as important as his photographic contribution is probably the sheer number of photographers that are in this business thanks to Stephen. I would say 85% of the LA photographers we worked with had either started with Stephen or at some point worked as an assistant for him. I'm sure he shared a lot of valuable knowledge with them. He wasn't one to hold back. He liked helping people.

02-08-2013, 11:47 AM	#76
Shap Confirmed User Industry Role: Join Date: May 2001 Posts: 8,313	Just saw a few recent pics of Stephen Big smile full of life. So sad

02-08-2013, 02:11 PM	#78
Evil Chris OG Industry Role: Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: 3rd from the Sun Posts: 13,232	Only met him once or twice over the years. Really nice man, and definitely gone too soon. No denying his talent either. He'll be missed by many. RIP. __________________ It PAYZE to post on GFY chris at payze.com \| Skype chriswrp

02-08-2013, 02:54 PM	#79
James Confirmed User Industry Role: Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Western Canada Posts: 89	Some great words for in here regarding who Stephen was and what he stood for. Jay, Mutt, Shap and Dean, thank you for these insights. I myself never had the pleasure of meeting Stephen but I've followed his career as best I could. He's been a major influence and inspiration in my own photography along the way. We've truly lost one of the pioneers. He will be missed. __________________ BellaPass

02-08-2013, 04:40 PM	#80
marcop Content Producer Industry Role: Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: Los Angeles Posts: 4,143	I always really liked his work. His models look real and desirable... I'm so disappointed when I see photos of girls here and other places (e.g., MM) where the skin tones are radioactive orange and smoothing software makes the girl's body look almost like a mannequin... this seems to have become a norm for certain kinds of adult internet images. Stephen's work always looked effortless--the hallmark of a true master. Last edited by marcop; 02-08-2013 at 04:42 PM..

02-08-2013, 07:12 PM	#81
Why MFBA Industry Role: Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: PNW Posts: 7,230	RIP Stephan, my favorite photographer by far.

02-08-2013, 07:28 PM	#83
SexKey Scott Confirmed User Industry Role: Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: New Jersey Posts: 343	Condolences to his friends and family. __________________ skype: wcdscott

02-08-2013, 08:11 PM	#84
PornDiscounts-V Confirmed User Industry Role: Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: L.A. Posts: 5,740	Inspiring guy. His legend will live on.

02-08-2013, 09:07 PM	#86
ArielRebel Confirmed User Industry Role: Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Canada Posts: 1,479	RIP.... this is so sad __________________ ArielRebel.com - RebelMayhem - Zesty & Spicy - Twitter - Instagram

02-08-2013, 10:34 PM	#87
Imortyl Pussycat Confirmed User Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Cali Posts: 5,449	very sad that we lost a legend my deepest condolences to his friends, family and our entire industry for this loss. RIP Stephen __________________ Julie Larson julie {at} juicyads.com skype: imortylpussycat Buy & Sell Ads on The Most Sexy Advertising Network on the Planet available ad spots \| sign up now

02-09-2013, 06:45 AM	#88
Mutt Too lazy to set a custom title Industry Role: Join Date: Sep 2002 Posts: 34,431	He passed on his knowledge to many photographers who worked for and with him, the Stephen Hicks tree will bear fruit for many years to come. Mark Lit was his top assistant and admittedly I'm a layman but Mark's photography is very similar to Stephen's. __________________ I moved my sites to Vacares Hosting. I've saved money, my hair is thicker, lost some weight too! Thanks Sly!

02-09-2013, 09:34 AM	#90
VanDahl Guest Posts: n/a	As an Artist, I have always admired Stephen's creative eye! He saw the natural beauty of a woman, so amazingly and was able to have that translate to us as we looked on in sheer delight with his results! In an email I sent him a couple years ago, I told him that I have 2 books that I use as inspirational reference in my studio. Essential Picasso & SUPERBEAUTY by J Stehen Hicks. He answered back that he felt honored to be in the company of Picasso. Well, I believe it should be the other way around and that Picasso should be the one that feels honored to be in the company of Mr. Hicks! My thoughts and prayers go out to his wife and kids and of course to his extended family at the ranch and here on gfy!

02-09-2013, 12:31 PM	#91
SplitInfinity Confirmed User Join Date: Dec 2002 Location: San Diego, CA Posts: 3,047	Im still shocked about this. I cant get it out of my head. He was literally one of the first people I respected in this industry and I am dumbfounded by his passing. Does anyone know what caused his untimely death?

02-10-2013, 11:11 AM	#93
Mutt Too lazy to set a custom title Industry Role: Join Date: Sep 2002 Posts: 34,431	Dear Valued Members, This news comes with a heavy heart. J. Stephen Hicks passed away on February 6, 2013. He was 58 years old. Stephen had been dealing with health issues for the last few years. He is survived by his wife and two children. The famed photographer helped change the face of nude photography through his flagship website www.digitaldesire.com. He also worked in the past at both Playboy and Penthouse. His visual style is synonymous with quality and excellence, and was a true pioneer in the world of soft-core erotic photography. Digital Desire will continue to operate business as usual under the guidance of Lani Hicks and the watchful lens of Mr. Hicks? protégés extraordinaire and photographers Mark Lit and Charles Lightfoot. Mrs. Hicks has been involved in all phases of the company since the beginning while Mark has been Digital Desire?s lead photographer and production point man since 2005. All the key components are firmly in place to keep J. Stephen?s vision alive and well moving into the future. Sincerely, The Hicks family __________________ I moved my sites to Vacares Hosting. I've saved money, my hair is thicker, lost some weight too! Thanks Sly!