BJ Formento was born in Honolulu, and his wife, Richeille, was born in London. After recieving his BFA in Photography from the Academy of Arts University in California, BJ, moved to New York and assisted Mary Ellen Mark, Annie Leibovitz, and Hans Neleman. In addition he had the opportunity to study with Eugene Richards and Arnold Newman. Since 2001, he has shot for a host of publications and clients, while continuing to make personal work.