Excerpts from an E-Mail interview with Jens Roettig:

What kind of work / accomplishments have you done with photography?

My grandfather was the first to teach me photography and darkroom work, which my father continued. Photography was always regarded as THE hobby in our family. All my life I have taken photos whereever I go. While in the army I was in charge of the photo lab there, and did everything from pass photos to 5 square meter posters. Being an East German, I only did black and white work until 1989 (there were no good color films available). Since then I've switched to color slides, and continue to fill all available storage rooms with my photos.

I mainly shoot travel photos, scenes from my local surroundings (Berlin and Sydney), and do a lot of job related photography.

Why the interest in nature photography?

I don't really have a preferred area of interest. I photograph everything unlucky enough to be in front of my camera!

How many years have you been pursuing photography?

Since childhood.

Has anyone been a particular inspiration to you in pursuing your art?

I usually look at as many photo books as I can, especially when preparing for a journey. GEO photography in general is quite inspiring, and I get many ideas from movies. In fact, movies may be a primary source of learning for me, since the camera work in films can be exceptionally good, and part of my brain is always thinking: how did he do that? which filters was he using? and where was the camera located?....

Do you do this full time, and if not, what else do you do?

No, it is a hobby only, I am a physician specialized in Sleep Medicine.

What is your goal with your artwork?

To create something. It is the deepest feeling of satisfaction I can get, if I have created a good photo, either as a slide, or in the darkroom.

What are the two most compelling reasons someone would want to go visit your website?

(1) To see more good photos. (2) To win an award for their own photo-page.