Born 1920 in London, into a theatrical Background. As a child his mother Elizabeth Lesley appeared on the London stage with the legendary Sarah Bernhardt.

As one of Britain's top motion picture photographers he has worked on British and International film locations in many parts of the world including France, Finland, Austria, Ireland, Switzerland, Spain, Italy, Greece, Africa, the Virgin Islands, Trinidad, Barbados and the U.S.A..

Leaving school at fifteen to become a photographic apprentice, he later joined the stills department at the Gainsborough Studios in Shepherd's Bush, London. During the war he was with the Royal Air Force Film Production Unit and on returning to civilian life rejoined Gainsborough as head of their stills department. When Gainsborough finally closed he freelanced and was continually in demand until his retirement in 1982.

He has written and published many articles on photography and the film industry. For a season he lectured at the Central London Polytechnic on portraiture. Few photographers are as technically knowledgeable concerning their craft.

After "Born Free" he wrote the book "any Old Lion" (published by Leslie Frewin) which reminisced his experiences photographing the wildlife of Kenya and gave a rare insight into the making of a memorable film.

To this day his work publishes all over the world and John's photographs have launched the careers of many of to-days motion picture legends.

He is still very much sought after for interviews, archive radio and television productions and by people writing or researching film books and literature.

Home for many years now has been a large, lovingly restored Edwardian house in south London, much of the restoration done by John himself. He enjoys a full and active retirement and is very interested in local community issues.

Deceased in 2005.