John Howell of Winnetka, Illinois passed away this March at the age of 90. He was a Life member in Professional Photographers of America where he earned his Master of Photography, and Photographic
Craftsman degrees. He was the first recipient of the Ross Sanddal International Award in 1995, and in 2000 he received PPA's Lifetime Achievement Award. He has also received honors from the American Society of
Photographers, the Royal Photographic Society of Great Britain, and the British
Insitute of Professional Photography, and was a member of Camera Craftsmen of America.
If you wish to post a remembrance of John Howell, please click the comments link below.
I am saddened to learn of John Howell's passing away from this earth. John was another one of the greats in our beloved photography industry. His contribution of his knowledge and talent through the PP of A and the ASP will long be remembered. He especially was a great icon for many years in working with print judging on the national level and also with the degree programs of the PP of A. Our thoughts and prayers go to those who were close to him and we celebrate his 90 years with us.
A close friend for a half-century; and never shy with hugs, kisses, and letters of love and friendship. I will miss our three-hour phone conversations, the little crack in his voice, and his chuckle.
No doubt, once again, he feels the "sensitive touch" of Myrna -- and they are enjoying the "Box Step" on the dance floor of Heaven.
The engine of the beloved "Queen Bee" is silent; yet the thunder rolls through memories filled with waves and spray.
To those of us who knew him well... he is with us always -- We Love You John!
When I grew up I used to see the beautiful wedding portraits in the magazines with the credit line...Photo by John Howell of Winetka. I wanted so much to be able to do beautiful Portraits like his. Little did I know that he would one day be one of my teachers. I remember his comments and best wishes when I recieved my Master of Photography degree it seems like only yesterday. He was 90 when he left us, it does not seem like he had enough time. I feel that he made very good use of the time he had. Those of us who were lucky enough to have known him personaly were truly blessed. A great Master has left us, our darkrooms are a little darker then normal without him. Thank You John for all that you have given to your profession.
I remember John well, as I was one of his "Brides from the 50's. At that time he was the "new guy" who you hired when you could not get the old established guy, whose name I have long forgotton. My wedding portrait and album remain cherished possessions. This albu is the best photographic memory I have of my family. Many of us will miss him.
In mid-'95 I had the pleasure of creating a portrait for Victoria Mall that was to be used on her business card for a large west-coast lab. In November of that same year, I received the nicest letter from another professional photograher that I have ever received. It was from John Howell regarding that portrait of Victoria. He had kept her card on his desk for weeks; so pleased was he by it! I was totally dumbfounded and flabbergasted that a man of his talent and distinction would take the time to write me, someone he had never meet, a letter as heartfelt as that one was. I've kept that letter to this very day, and will remember Mr. Howell not only as a wonderful photographer, but maybe even more importantly as a kind, giving, and thoughtful gentleman. He will be missed.
God Speed John.
John was a class act.There are so many wonderful memories I have of John. His charge to the degree recipient's for one was a very emotional experience and made the all the individuals relaiaze the importance of their accomplishments.
His photographic images were true works of art.
He was a giving individual and would share his gifts with anyone. I always enjoyed watching him dance at the awards banquets.I fell blessed to have known him. God Speed friend.
Xenophon