Adult Photographer J. Stephen Hicks Has Died

LOS ANGELES — Acclaimed adult industry photographer and videographer J. Stephen Hicks passed away yesterday.

Hicks’ career spanned more than three decades. His work appeared in nearly every adult magazine including Penthouse, Hustler, Club, High Society, Gallery and more.

Business partner and friend Jay Allan reported Hicks' passing. He said, “Yesterday I lost my mentor, my friend, and my business partner, J. Stephen Hicks. He was a true pioneer in the adult industry. At a time when there were only about a dozen photographers worldwide shooting for the adult magazine market J. Stephen Hicks' work stood out as exceptional. It still does today. “

Hicks' work was immediately distinguishable by its natural light and calculated composition.

Allan said Hicks taught his team to always put 100 percent of their creative energy into every image and video and try to make everything as artistic and beautiful as possible. “As a photographer he had no equal and took every step to artistically and creatively make every girl we shot look her absolute best. I am very lucky to have known and learned from the best and I am at least comforted by knowing that his legacy will live on and his amazing body of work will always be here for us to enjoy.”

Hicks’ website —DigitalDesire.com — will continue to carry on his legacy.

“I was lucky to have worked with him over the past 20 years. I will miss him dearly,” Allan said.

This reporter, who worked with Hicks numerous times as the editor of High Society magazine in the ‘90’s recalls that his work was always erotic, while very classy. He ranked right up there with Suze Randall, John Copeland, Earl Miller and others as the top shooters in the business.

Copeland told XBIZ, "I am shocked and saddened to hear about Stephen. He was a truly great total photographer as well as a great photographer of women. His photography will live on. He was highly respected as a person and as a businessman. I always had a great relationship with him. My thoughts are with his family."

Miller added, “Hicks was a real artist who I have always respected personally and professionally. Our world has lost a giant.”

Hicks was first a creative genius, and for those who knew him — a family man, cycler and surfer dude at heart.

Related:  

Copyright © 2025 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Natalia Starr Stars in Latest From New Sensations

Natalia Starr stars with Danny Mountain in the latest release from New Sensations.

Sabien DeMonia Drops Latest Evil Angel Directorial 'Depravation of Innocence'

Sabien DeMonia has dropped her latest directorial effort for Evil Angel, “Depravation of Innocence.”

Yhivi Makes Her Tushy Raw Debut

Yhivi has made her debut for Vixen Media Group (VMG) studio imprint Tushy Raw, alongside Dan Damage.

Cubbi Thompson Stars in Latest From Brazzers

Cubbi Thompson stars with Small Hands in the latest release from Brazzers, titled "She’s Good with Her Mouth."

Elegant Angel Premieres Lilly Bell Showcase 'Lilly Loves Girls'

Reigning XMAs Girl/Girl Performer of the Year Lilly Bell gets the spotlight in a new four-part showcase release from Elegant Angel.

Chloe Amour: Recharged, Refocused, and Ready for Real Love

These days, getting ahold of Chloe Amour on the weekend can be tough. She might ditch her phone, as was the case on a recent weekend while celebrating her birthday with family at Disneyland, riding the rides and taking in some sun.

Isabella De Laa, Cherry Candle Star in Latest From MixedX

Isabella De Laa and Cherry Candle star in the latest release from MixedX, titled “Between Us.”

Tony Sting, Adira Allure & Dominic Pacifico Headline Latest From BiPhoria

Tony Sting, Adira Allure, and Dominic Pacifico star in the latest release from BiPhoria.

Proxy Paige, Wolf King Release 'I Kissed a Trans and I Liked It'

Evil Angel has released its latest title, “I Kissed a Trans and I Liked It,” co-directed by Proxy Paige and Wolf King.

Elly Clutch Stars in Latest From Brazzers

2024 XMAs Female Clip Creator of the Year Elly Clutch stars with Ricky Johnson in the latest release from Brazzers, titled "Elly’s Evil Twin."

Show More