By Roberta Gonzales

After four and a half decades in the television business—most of them at KTVU—legendary photographer Tony Hodrick has hung up his camera for good.

No more hauling that bulky gear on his shoulder.

No more ribbon cuttings.

No more early alarms before the crack of dawn.

For Tony, it was never just about showing up—it was about how he showed up.

Behind the lens, Tony had a quiet brilliance. He didn’t just capture moments… he understood them. Whether it was breaking news, community stories, or everyday life across the Bay Area, Tony had an instinct for framing not just the shot—but the story.

And if you were lucky enough to be assigned to work with him, you knew one thing for sure:

If the forecast called for rain… Tony knew assigned to me, we were getting drenched!

Tony had a way of leaning into the elements, never backing down from the story—no matter the conditions. There are countless memories of standing side by side in the pouring rain, soaked to the bone, chasing the perfect shot and the right moment. He wouldn’t have it any other way.

Because for Tony, the story always came first.

Colleagues describe him as steady, dedicated, and deeply respected—a photographer who made everyone around him better. He was the kind of teammate you could count on without question, the one who showed up ready, focused, and all in.

Over the years, Tony didn’t just document history—he became part of the fabric of this newsroom. His work helped shape how stories were told, how moments were remembered, and how viewers connected to the world around them.

And while the camera may now be set down, his legacy is anything but.

It lives on in the countless stories he captured, the journalists he partnered with, and the moments he preserved for all of us.

Congratulations, Tony, on an extraordinary career.

And here’s hoping retirement brings a little less rain… though knowing you, you might just miss it.