John Knoll

Biography

John Knoll, born on October 6, 1962, is a visionary American visual effects supervisor and chief creative officer at Industrial Light & Magic (ILM). Alongside his brother Thomas Knoll, he is recognized as one of the original creators of Adobe Photoshop. His contributions to the field of visual effects are profound, with notable works including the Star Wars prequels, the 1997 special editions of the original trilogy, Star Trek films, and the Pirates of the Caribbean series.

Directors such as James Cameron, Gore Verbinski, Guillermo del Toro, and Brad Bird have lauded Knoll for his exceptional talent and innovative approach to visual effects. Del Toro described Knoll as having the heart of a child combined with the mind of a scientist, a unique blend that sets him apart in the industry.

In addition to his visual effects work, Knoll is also the mastermind behind Knoll Light Factory, a groundbreaking lens flare-generating software that revolutionized the industry. His involvement in projects like The Abyss, various Star Trek episodes, and a cameo in Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace showcase his diverse skill set and creative versatility.

Reflecting on his collaboration with George Lucas on the Star Wars prequel trilogy, Knoll expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity and the invaluable experience gained during those years. Lucas's unwavering confidence in pushing boundaries and challenging norms resonated with Knoll, shaping his approach to creativity and problem-solving.

In 2016, John Knoll and his brother Thomas were honored with induction into the International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum, recognizing their significant contributions to the world of visual arts and technology. Their groundbreaking work on Photoshop was further acknowledged at the 2019 Oscars with a Scientific and Engineering Award, underscoring the lasting impact of their original design and development.

John Knoll's legacy in the realm of visual effects continues to inspire and shape the industry, setting new standards for innovation and creativity. His pioneering spirit and unwavering dedication to his craft have cemented his status as a true visionary in the world of filmmaking.