CSUS Photo professor died June 16, missed by many

Talbert primarily photographed landscapes in black and white. These photos are a part of a retrospective of his work that is on display in Mariposa Hall.

By JENNIFER COLEMAN
Hornet News Editor
Published September 2, 1998

After spending more than half his life learning, then teaching, at California State University, Sacramento, Professor Ralph Talbert died June 16 at the age of 64.

After receiving his BA in Biological Sciences in 1955, Talbert went on in 1960 to achieve his MA in the same field, specializing in Microbiology.

He returned to CSUS in 1969, this time as a teacher in the photography department, where he instructed and inspired students until his unexpected death.

Talbert grew up in Paso Robles. He served in the Army's 3rd Armored Division in Germany in the 1950s.

Talbert began teaching at CSUS in 1969, and eventually became chair of the journalism department. Last semester, he taught "Basic Techniques in Photography," "Basic Color Photography," and "Advanced Photography."

"I've known him for about thirty years, and this is the first fall semester he hasn't walked in the door and it's very sad," said Sharmon Goff, Talbert's colleague in the photography department.

"He loved photography and he really, really loved teaching. There are a lot of really good photographers out there who can't teach," Goff said. "His outlook on life was reflected in his photography. He was certainly my mentor."

Professor William Dorman, a colleague of Talbert's for nearly 30 years, called Talbert a "consummate teacher."

"He had a way of inspiring the best in students without imposing his vision on them. He wanted them to think for themselves," Dorman said.

"He was absolutely a great teacher," said former student Larry Dalton. Dalton credits Talbert's instruction with inspiring him to become a professional photographer. "He was one of those teachers who would spend time to make sure you understood. He always had time to help out."

"He wanted us to see what we normally don't see, don't shoot, and find something interesting in that," Dalton said. "It really opened my eyes to the possibilities out there."

In addition to his work as a teacher, Talbert was instrumental in assisting local photographer Gordon Hutchings develop an updated film developer widely used among regional black and white photographers. A book, twice revised, was printed on the basis of research conducted by Hutchings and confirmed by Talbert.

Although having spent earlier years with photographers Ansel Adams and Morley Baer, Talbert did not fear change. Eager to expose students to a wide variety of experiences, he encouraged exploration in digital image processing and manipulation.

Talbert was known among students and faculty members for his enthusiasm and expertise in the field of photography.

In a 1993 post tenure review, Talbert was commended by the committee for his "unreserved joy" and noted that he was a valuable member of the CSUS faculty.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Jane Talbert of Sacramento; his mother, Willo Talbert of Fair Oaks; sons, Gregory of Portland, Ore., Matthew and David, both of Sacramento; a sister, Ann Talbert Simmonds of Fair Oaks; and two grandchildren.