John Franks, president and owner of Photographic Arts, grew up on a farm near Port Byron, Illinois. John first realized his love for photography at a young age while in the 4-H club. Throughout high school his interest and passion grew as he served as a photographer on the yearbook staff. Following high school, John went on to Southern Illinois University receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Photography.

In March of 1975, John opened Photographic Arts Portrait Studio in Geneseo, Illinois. In 1985 he purchased a mini-lab and a year later expanded the lab to include portrait finishing. By 1987 Photographic Arts had outgrown its initial location and moved to its present location at 804 South Oakwood Avenue, Geneseo. In 1988 Photographic Arts purchased Adolphi Studio in Moline and in 1996 purchased Portraits by Annette in Davenport. In the fall of 2000 an exciting state-of-the-art digital photo lab was added to the Geneseo location and with the speed of new technology is continually being updated.

You’ll often see John still doing what he loves, working with customers and taking the best portraits possible. We have continued to evolve with the trends of our industry and the voices of our clients, always staying at the top of our profession. From our lab services and staff to our custom care and organization, we offer quality services at an exceptional value.