This is my first post. It feels a little strange writing it since I have refused to partake in social media for all these years. It’s not that I was afraid of it, I do have a computer technology background. It’s just that I didn’t see the relevance to me. But, now I have a new career and I have to keep up with the times.
I am now a” food and product photographer.” Food photography has been my passion since the early 1980s. At that time, I was a science teacher and wedding photographer. Having the summers off, I worked as an assistant in New York City (heretofore to be know as “the city”). For two summers I worked for Stu Peltz, a commercial still life photographer who told me that I would never become a photographer because I had a wife and a mortgage – not because I lacked talent. I couldn’t afford to become a photographer because in commercial photography, there was no such thing as a part-time or weekend photographer. Stu was a great photographer, a great mentor and he was right. I put off my dream until I retired from 31 years of teaching science. (I taught at Daniel Carter Beard Junior High School 189Q for 8 years and Edward R. Murrow High School for 23 years.)
Well, retirement finally came around in June 2009 and the first thing I did was buy a digital SLR. (Canon EOS 5D Mark II) started studying, practicing and building a portfolio. As retirement approached, I took some online classes and found them to be very helpful in getting me back into shape. I would higly recommend both BetterPhoto.com and PPSOP.com.
So, now I am a working commercial still life photographer. Stu was absolutely right, I don’t make enough money to support myself but, the pension helps. I am doing photography now just because I love to do it. It is truly a passion. You can see my work at my website www.photography-by-jerry.com.
An apple for the "former" teacher.
Photography by Jerry, LLC 
Welcome to the world of blogging. Your blog is honest and I love your photos.
Social Media is here to stay. It’s a bit scary at first to put yourself out there but it will get easier as time goes on. Keep following your passion. It will be rewarding to no end.
Jerry, great beginning for your Blog. It’s nice to get to know you and your interesting story like this. Thanks for the link. 🙂
Hi Jerry~
I really enjoyed working with you~ love the passion and your work! hope to work with you again soon!
Michael
Great photos! Much luck with your Blog. The picture of the ruggies, I think, is particularly excellent.
Thought for food???
Nice website!
David
Thanks all.
Photos are gorgeous! Have fun with the blog- nice to get outside your comfort zone once in a while and try something different!
Love the honest intro! I have a similar issue… My day is so filled, I just can’t keep up with all the social networks out there. Keep following your passion, it surely shows on the chocolate pics you have on your site from my product line. I would recommend you anytime!