Jerry Posenau (Capital District - Mechanicsville, VA)
How did photography first become part of your life, and what made you decide to pursue it more seriously?
My interest in photography was instilled by my father. He had a Bell & Howell 8mm movie camera when I was very young. He switched to slides as I was growing up. I started with a Kodak Brownie camera that had a metal flip up viewfinder! The advent of digital cameras is when I became more serious about photography.
Before photography, you spent many years in another profession. Are there skills or perspectives from that career that influence how you approach photography today?
I was a dentist for forty-three years. The demand for attention to detail is what I also pursue in photography. As it is only one of the twelve elements to achieve a Merit, I am working on becoming more creative.
What subjects or types of scenes do you find yourself most drawn to photographing right now?
Wildlife and musicians are what I am drawn to. I have great empathy toward people and try to capture their talents and expressions while performing.
You joined VPPA about a year and a half ago. What encouraged you to get involved, and what has stood out to you about the community so far?
I joined the VPPA once I retired and now have more time for photography. I was led to the organization by Anthony Rumley. On his annual critique night at the Camera Club of Richmond, he always starts with an invitation to join the VPPA. I attended a district meeting that Buck presented at. Everyone was so friendly. After speaking with Tish Underwood, I joined shortly thereafter.
What’s something you’ve learned about photography that surprised you once you started taking it seriously?
The more photography that I do, the more I observe surroundings that I used to rush past.
When you’re not behind the camera, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
When I am not out looking for images, Linda and I enjoy spending time with our two grandsons. In the future, I hope to improve my editing skills and develop more creativity.
As you continue growing as a photographer, what are you most excited to explore or improve next?
I would like to improve my Photoshop skills and be able to create composite images.
What’s something about you that fellow VPPA members might be surprised to learn?
I have one hobby that members would be surprised to learn about. I paint resin Santa figurines. In 1998, I purchased several unpainted Santas at the Williamsburg Pottery Shop. I painted them as gifts for a few family members and friends. Never skipping a year, I average around ten each December. There are over three hundred out there now. As the resin figurine hobby faded out, as well as the source, I now procure the Santas at antique malls and estate sales. I repaint these “used” Santas in my style, duplicating the colors that I started with in 1998.