A Master Photographer Reflects on Work, Love, and Finding a Voice

As curator of the National Geographic Found Tumblr, I love sharing a small sliver of our incredible collection of photographs. But sometimes I want to dig a little deeper and get to know the photographers who captured these great moments. We’re lucky to have one of them here in the office every day—Chief Content Officer Chris Johns. Johns worked as a field photographer for over 20 years before a ten-year turn as editor in chief of National Geographic magazine. Before that he worked in a number of roles as a photographer and picture editor for various newspapers. I grabbed a quick lunch with Johns and asked him about his passion for photography.

Smitty would always really encourage

Unlock this story for free
Create an account to read the full story and get unlimited access to hundreds of Nat Geo articles.

Unlock this story for free

Want the full story? Sign up to keep reading and unlock hundreds of Nat Geo articles for free.
Already have an account?
SIGN IN

Read This Next

What bacteria lurk in your city? Consult the bees.
Is melatonin giving you nightmares?
Why are these orcas killing sharks and removing their livers?

Go Further

Subscriber Exclusive Content

Why are people so dang obsessed with Mars?

How viruses shape our world

The era of greyhound racing in the U.S. is coming to an end

See how people have imagined life on Mars through history

See how NASA’s new Mars rover will explore the red planet

Why are people so dang obsessed with Mars?

How viruses shape our world

The era of greyhound racing in the U.S. is coming to an end

See how people have imagined life on Mars through history

See how NASA’s new Mars rover will explore the red planet

Why are people so dang obsessed with Mars?

How viruses shape our world

The era of greyhound racing in the U.S. is coming to an end

See how people have imagined life on Mars through history

See how NASA’s new Mars rover will explore the red planet