Adult industry photographer and J. Stephen Hicks passed away suddenly yesterday. Over a three decade plus career, Hicks’ photos appeared in nearly every adult magazine including Genesis, Club, Penthouse, High Society, Gallery, Swank, Cheri and more. He was a laid-back California dude who enjoyed his family, surfing and shooting photos.

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’ website —DigitalDesire.com — will continue on.

On a personal note, coming into the office this morning and hearing about the sudden passing of J. Stephen Hicks is truly sad. Having worked with Stephen for the last 15 years starting with Genesis and recently with Club, he was truly one of the nicest guys in the biz to deal with and easily the best natural light shooter in my opinion. He will truly be missed, not only as a talent in the industry, but as a human being. Our deepest sympathies from myself and everyone at Magna Publishing to his family, friends and co-workers.