Born and raised in Traverse City, John Russell began using a 35 mm Argus camera at the age of eight and developing film in his grandma's basement not long after.After working at a cherry orchard as a teen, he found a job more suited to his skill set-shooting photos for The State News at Michigan State University, where he earned a journalism degree.Russell returned to his hometown, working as a photographer for the Traverse City Record-Eagle from 1975 to 2004. He now writes and shoots for The Detroit News, BRIDGEMI, online news sites, and wire services.John and his wife, Meg, own Great Lakes Images, a freelance photography business and image library.In his spare time, he fly-fishes, ice boats, and volunteers. He is active with the Mid-Michigan Honor Flight, Anglers of the Au Sable, the Twin Bay British Car Club, the Traverse Area Camera Club, and the Grand Traverse Ice Yacht Club. He has also served on several boards, including the Grand Traverse Bay YMCA.John shares his life with Meg and their family, including a new great-granddaughter. Two rescue dogs, a cranky rooster, and plenty of work on their Williamsburg farm make his life complete.