Roger Riley is a professional freelance photographer and owner of Riley Photographics. Born in Johnstown, PA, he picked up a camera in high school and has yet to put it down. Educated at the Rochester Institute of Technology, he received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Photography. He worked as a photo journalist for the Johnstown Tribune-Democrat and interned at Eastman Kodak's photo-illustration division while attending college.

Moving to southeastern Connecticut in 1974, he opened a photographic studio dedicated to professional freelance photography. To further the goal of being "cutting edge", Roger continues to educate himself regarding all things photographic by attending seminars, professional shows and workshops. Bringing that information to his clients, local clubs, and non-profit organizations via workshops and seminars, Roger exhibits his team member approach to providing photographic services. Roger claims that "my adaptability, good communication skills, and "can do" attitude are as important as technical skill and experience. To do a good job, you must do your home work. That means having a two way dialogue with a client about their specific needs."

In 2004, Roger approached Mitchell College with a syllabus to teach an accredited course in Digital Photography and Digital Imaging as an elective for their Graphic Design Major. The class has been a big hit. He finds working with the students keeps his own work "fresh". "They (the students) have such a different view on things. They really keep me sharp. We may be talking about focus and seeing through a lens, but I think this course helps them to apply that mind set to other areas of their life. I really enjoy watching them grow photographically and personally."

With his eye on the digital revolution in photography, Roger began transitioning to an all digital environment several years ago. With the improvements in printer technology, papers and dyes, he feels comfortable offering digital prints to his clients often referred to as "giclees" in the art world. Software improvements have also allowed him to expand some services while eliminating the need for some of his more specialized lenses. "Making the decision to stop shooting film was exciting and scary at the same time. With the demise of Minolta, the difficulty of getting or having film on hand, and finding replacement parts or having repair work done, I knew it was inevitable. Now that it's done, I feel very comfortable with the decision. I still feel like I'm doing some of the best photography of my career".

Roger Riley Photography