Spotlight on Huntington Photographer Jack Semelsberger
February 5, 2024
Ask his classmates and they will tell you that Jack Semelsberger is a really great guy. And the Huntington High School senior really is that, but so much more, too. The teenager is talented in a variety of ways, including with camera in hand behind the lens.
Mr. Semelsberger is a third year photography student with teacher Pamela Piffard-Williams. He has steadily gained in skills and confidence and his creativity knows no bounds. He is one of Huntington’s best young photographers and the images he produces speak for themselves.
The senior has dabbled in a little bit of everything, including playing on the Blue Devils’ first varsity bowling team in 30 years as a sophomore. He has been on stage for five high school drama club productions and has become an essential part of Huntington’s theatre arts program.
Mr. Semelsberger’s academic average exceeds 100 and he’s one of the top members of the high school’s Class of 2024. The teenager comes from a wonderful Huntington family that is both close knit and encouraging of everything he does.
Questions and Answers with Jack Semelsberger
Q: How old are you and what grade are you in?
Jack Semelsberger: I am 17 years old and I’m in 12th grade.
Q: How did you first get interested in photography?
Jack Semelsberger: I first became interested in photography when I took my dad’s phone in the city and took pictures of people walking past and the bright lights of Times Square. Ever since I’ve been interested in photography, but enrolling in Intro to Photography my sophomore year really elevated my abilities and passion.
Q: Where do you get your ideas?
Jack Semelsberger: I currently get my ideas from Greek mythology, as I’m doing a sustained investigation for the Advanced Placement about modern interpretations of these ancient myths. The stories, symbols and history of Greek mythology has influenced my own interpretations of these gods.
Q: Is there any specific type of photography you like best?
Jack Semelsberger: I enjoy portrait photography the most, and it has been a majority of my AP project. I feel that being able to capture different types of facial expressions and moods is an amazing thing.
Q: How has the Huntington photography program helped you with your love of photography?
Jack Semelsberger: The Huntington photography program has helped elevate me as a photographer, artist and person. I’ve been surrounded by my friends who constantly inspire and motivate me and make the class more enjoyable than it already is.
Q: Do you plan to continue with photography or go to school for it?
Jack Semelsberger: While I don’t plan on pursuing photography in in college, I’ve definitely picked up the skills and passion to have photography as a hobby. I would still like to keep photography in my life.
Q: Please tell me about your other accomplishments.
Jack Semelsberger: I’ve been fortunate enough to earn ribbons at the Huntington Art Show the last two years, as well as being featured in some galleries across Long Island.
Q: What clubs/activities/sports are you involved in?
Jack Semelsberger: I’ve been involved in the marching band for the last two years, serving as the drum major for my senior year. I’ve also been on stage with the drama club since my sophomore year.
Q: Where do you see yourself in five years?
Jack Semelsberger: Five years in the future I see myself working my way to being a creative director at either a marketing firm or internal advertising at a company.
