about Ben
Ben Van Hook is an American photographer and director who sees the world with a certain purity and honesty that always permeates his work. He consistently inspires others through his creativity and sense of humor. With 35 years experience as a photographer and director, Ben brings to bear a unique skill set which allows him to navigate seamlessly between the worlds of print, broadcast, and online content creation. Born and raised in Kentucky, Ben started his career at The Louisville Courier-Journal, where he shared in The Pulitzer Prize and was a Finalist for the Prize in photography. He won numberous awards while in Kentucky including Photographer of the Year at the Atlanta seminar on Photojournalism. Relocating to Florida in 1990, he began working for Sports Illustrated, The New Yorks Time Magazine, Fortune and a host of other national publications. In 1999 Ben was awarded the prestigious Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Award in International Photojournalism for a LIFE magazine story. He delved in to advertising work in the late 1990's and has since traveled the world creating campaigns for Johnson & Johnson, Philips, MTV, Nemours Children's Hospital and Golf Digest. In addition, he has created numerous exclusive digital stock libraries for many health care agencies and clients. In 2001 he established his own production company and co-directed his first feature length documentary which was acquired by SHOWTIME. His film credits include Lifetime TV, FOX, and National Geographic Explorer. 2004 was a great year due to directing his first 35mm short film starring Erik Per Sullivan (Cider House Rules, Unfaithful) and Skye McCole Bartusiak (The Patriot, Don't Say A Word, Boogeyman). At festivals around the U.S, the film went on to win 12 awards including "Best Short" and "Best Director". Additionally, his commercial film work has been recognized with numerous Addy awards.