AnacortesToday.com, a website dedicated to “celebration of life in Anacortes,” marks its 10th Anniversary in June.
“I can’t believe it’s been a decade since I posted my first photos,” said website founder Steve Berentson. “It’s gratifying to know that people enjoy the images I post each day, not only as a reflection of current events but as a community scrapbook dating back to 1983.”
Berentson, a former photojournalist now serving clients as a public relations consultant, launched AnacortesToday.com as a “creative outlet” with a nod to once dominant U.S. magazines including LIFE and LOOK. Since then he has posted more than 5,600 images of local people, scenes and events.
When AnacortesToday.com first launched, Berentson was still using film. As new photo technology became available he quickly transitioned to digital cameras, at least for the website. Four cameras, two site redesigns and a blog later, AnacortesToday.com still serves an audience eager to share Berentson’s images and captions.
Sections of the website include the main “Gallery,” which features more than 3,267 images; the “Activities” section, with more than 2,120 images; and the new-ish “Blog,” with 264 images including some from other local photographers. It is not uncommon for people seeking local images to ‘shop’ using the AnacortesToday.com search engine.
“Anacortes is a very special place, deserving of all efforts made to record the lives and adventures of people who live here," said Berentson. "I love photography, and I hope AnacortesToday.com continues to be a source of enjoyment for all who visit.”