January 20th, 2009
Tuesday morning I went to Washington, DC for the Inauguration of Barack Obama as president of the United States. On my own with no credentials…no assignment…on a shoestring. I knew beforehand that I hadn’t a chance of getting close to the ceremony so I decided to focus on the people behind me for my frames. I was able to roam, or rather; slowly creep, through the crowd for about an hour to take photos while the events were keeping peoples’ attention.
The inauguration stood in stark contrast to when I first photographed Obama. Almost two years ago he announced his candidacy and I went to his first visit to New Hampshire as a candidate. Even then the crowds were large and the air electric but I managed to photograph him very closely , in crowds and as an actual person. Now that actual person is an icon of hope for a generation and the darling of the world media. Many other photographers have covered this past election with more skill and experience and more deeply than I; for sure, but I feel lucky to have been along for the ride and to see it to its end…and grab a frame or two.
I am looking forward to the next election cycle…which ‘ought to start in about a month, right?
On the National Mall during president Obama's swearing in ceremony. Washington, DC
On the National Mall during president Obama's swearing in ceremony. Washington, DC
On the National Mall during president Obama's swearing in ceremony. Washington, DC
A women watches with emotion as Barack Obama is sworn in as President. Washington, DC.
On the National Mall during president Obama's swearing in ceremony. Washington, DC
On the National Mall during president Obama's swearing in ceremony. Washington, DC
On the National Mall during president Obama's swearing in ceremony. Washington, DC
A woman watches the end of the swearing-in ceremony of Barack Obama as the crowd starts to disperse. Washington, DC.
On the National Mall during president Obama's swearing in ceremony. Washington, DC
Police guide the crowds from atop buses after president Obama"s swearing in ceremony. Washington, DC
