On this day, 24 years ago, photofocus.com opened its virtual pages for photographers of all styles, skill level and expertise. Our online magazine has come a long way since, and we’re thrilled to be celebrating another year of photography inspiration, learning opportunities and boundless creativity with you. So, for today, allow us to share some words from two key figures in Photofocus then and now: Founder Scott Bourne and Chief Operating Officer Dave Moser.
On Nov. 2, 1998, I got the idea to start an online magazine about photography. I picked “photofocus.com” as the URL because I thought PHOTO is everything. All the other stuff mattered less. But, I started with the simple goal of helping people get more out of photography.
We started before there was RSS technology, so no blog or podcasts in those early days. It was more of an old-fashioned website made to look like a magazine or newsletter. I am proud to say that as far as I know, not one day has passed since Nov. 2, 1998 that there hasn’t been at least ONE new post, picture, quote, podcast, and article at Photofocus.
In the early days, we survived thanks to advertisers and supporters. Adobe, Apple and Drobo were early supporters. Almost all of the big industry players also contributed news to our site.
When RSS became available we launched our first podcast, Photofocus went on to expand to multiple podcasts and many blog posts each week. When I started, I didn’t think of it as a business, I started it because I just wanted to help photographers.
As time passed, my circumstances changed, so I sold Photofocus to Rich Harrington. Rich is a lot smarter than me and a better editor and he grew and matured the publication to be a standard-bearer in the industry. I know Rich Harrington shares the same goals I had when I launched, so many years ago.
I am proud to say that thanks to the staff we’ve added over the years, our advertisers and industry partners, Photofocus is still around.
The world is changing and I don’t know how long blogs and podcasts will be a “thing.” But I do know that Photofocus will have made its mark, come what may.
Thanks for coming along for the ride. Hopefully, something that we have done or that our staff has put together, was helpful to you. And as Bob Hope used to say, “Thanks for the memories.” Keep your camera close and never be afraid to use it to share your heart and your art.
Scott Bourne
—
Photofocus turns 24 today and what a run it’s been! Why even mention we turned 24?
In numerology, the meaning of the number 24 is associated with hard work and determination, which sums up the Photofocus Team!
In these 24 years, we have managed to publish several times a week and always with professionalism and integrity. The crew, in total, represents almost 100 contributors and far too many to mention. Many are well-known in the industry, and many more are those who are passionate about photography. One thing in common, however, is they are all trying to share their experiences and encourage photographers at all levels to enjoy and share their photos!
I have known many of our contributors for 18+ years as they pursued their passion and varied careers. Rarely have any said no to sharing or teaching a technique to our readers.
It brings a quote by Lailah Gifty Akita to mind:“ The test of time reveals true friends.”
I want to thank our founder, our publisher, our editorial board, our partners and you, our readers, who have allowed us to serve this industry for all these years.
Dave Moser
Chief Operating Officer, Photofocus.com
Thank you, Scott, for launching Photofocus, and happy 24th anniversary. I discovered Photofocus in 2008 when I got serious about my photography after 35 years of taking pictures. I could not get enough of it. It inspired my art and changed my life.
A BIG Congratulations to the whole Photofocus team! 24 years is a major milestone for any business, but it’s absolutely massive for a publishing site on the Internet!
Thanks so much Rod, from all of us at Photofocus