A recent photography workshop at the PSS Highbridge Older Adult Center gave members the chance to slow down, get creative, and experience photography in a whole new way. Led by Bronx artist Lenny Medina in partnership with the Bronx Documentary Center (BDC), the series introduced participants to the craft of analog photography through immersive, hands-on learning.
Over several sessions, members explored every step of the process. They used vintage film cameras to capture portraits, documented the beauty of everyday life with disposable cameras, and entered the darkroom to develop their own photographs by hand. For many, it was their first time experiencing the artistry and patience behind traditional film photography.
Medina is the documentary center’s Darkroom Manager. He is also the founder and creative director of Retrolenz Photography,
“The love and admiration that I felt at PSS Highbridge Center was indescribable,” Medina said, reflecting on his experience. “I’m happy I was able to showcase what we can do when amazing people work together!”
While participants gained new photography skills, they also discovered something deeper: the joy of creative expression, meaningful connection, and lifelong learning. The workshop served as a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to try something new, share your perspective, and create memories that last well beyond the moment the shutter clicks.
PSS Highbridge OAC Center Director Randy Leyba said this is the first time the participating members ever visited the darkroom at the documentary center. While members have produced documentary-style photography of their neighborhood in past BDC collaborations with PSS Highbridge over the years, that visit combined with Medina’s enthusiasm and encouragement raised the experience to a new level.
The resulting portraits now decorate a wall in the center’s community room.
Visit the PSS Highbridge Center Facebook page to see a video created by Medina and BDC documenting the project from start to finish. – By KaTrina Dinham