Luke Sharrett - Photojournalist (434)851-3955

South Carolina Primary: Part 2

2012-01-29T23:54:00.005-05:00

I spent 10 days on the road covering the South Carolina Republican Primary for The New York Times. Thanks to my dear friend Elizabeth Lauer for helping when the edit got too tough for one person. Here's part two:

(L-R) Vietnam veterans Lyn Dimery and VFW Post Commander Richard Copeland wait for the arrival of Republican presidential candidate and Texas Governor Rick Perry before his campaign event at VFW Post 10420 in Murrells Inlet, S.C. on Tuesday, January 17, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Republican presidential candidate Texas Governor Rick Perry holds a campaign event at VFW Post 10420 in Murrells Inlet, S.C. on Tuesday, January 17, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Republican presidential candidate Texas Governor Rick Perry delivers the grand finale of his stump speech during a campaign event at VFW Post 10420 in Murrells Inlet, S.C. on Tuesday, January 17, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Veterans and supporters listen as Republican presidential candidate Texas Governor Rick Perry holds a campaign event at VFW Post 10420 in Murrells Inlet, S.C. on Tuesday, January 17, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Santorum campaign volunteer Sara Ball, 15, attaches campaign signs to windows before Republican presidential candidate Rick Santorum's campaign event at the The Beacon Drive-In restaurant in Spartanburg, S.C. on Wednesday, January 18, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

An American flag is reflected in a puddle outside The Beacon Drive-In restaurant in Spartanburg, S.C. before Republican presidential candidate Rick Santorum's campaign event on Wednesday, January 18, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

A bodyguard for Republican presidential candidate Rick Santorum stands guard near the candidate's SUV before a campaign event at the The Beacon Drive-In restaurant in Spartanburg, S.C. on Wednesday, January 18, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Republican presidential candidate Rick Santorum takes questions from a local TV news anchor before his campaign event at the The Beacon Drive-In restaurant in Spartanburg, S.C. on Wednesday, January 18, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Rick Santorum is seen through a window while delivering a stump speech during a campaign event at the The Beacon Drive-In restaurant in Spartanburg, S.C. on Wednesday, January 18, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Supporters await the arrival of Republican presidential candidate former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich at Mutt's Barbecue in Easley, S.C. before his campaign stop on Wednesday, January 18, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Republican presidential candidate former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich makes a stump speech at Mutt's Barbecue during a campaign stop in Easley, S.C. on Wednesday, January 18, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Republican presidential candidate and Texas Governor Rick Perry laughs with customer Mike McKinney at Bullock's Barber Shop while campaigning in Greer, S.C. on Wednesday, January 18, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Marty Rhymes of Longview, Tex. waits in the hotel lobby following Texas Governor Rick Perry's announcement that he is pulling out of the Republican primary at the Hyatt Place Hotel in North Charleston, S.C. on Thursday, January 19, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Debate volunteer Jenny Trayer, a student at College of Charleston, steams curtains in the debate "spin room" before the CNN Southern Republican Presidential Debate at the North Charleston Coliseum in North Charleston, S.C. on Thursday, January 19, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Rick Perry's name is seen scratched from a piece of paper denoting candidate positions on a television camera on the set of the CNN Southern Republican Presidential Debate at the North Charleston Coliseum in North Charleston, S.C. on Thursday, January 19, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich shakes hands with Rep. Ron Paul during the CNN Southern Republican Presidential Debate at the North Charleston Coliseum in North Charleston, S.C. on Thursday, January 19, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

The candidates are introduced at the CNN Southern Republican Presidential Debate at the North Charleston Coliseum in North Charleston, S.C. on Thursday, January 19, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

An audience member watches with binoculars during the CNN Southern Republican Presidential Debate at the North Charleston Coliseum in North Charleston, S.C. on Thursday, January 19, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Comedy Central entertainer Stephen Colbert (left) and Herman Cain (right) deliver stump speeches during the "Rock Me Like a Herman Cain: South Cain-Olina Primary Rally" in the Cistern Yard at the College of Charleston in Charleston, S.C. on Friday, January 20, 2012. Colbert has said he is running in the South Carolina Republican primary under Herman Cain's name with Cain's blessing. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Comedy Central entertainer Stephen Colbert (left) and Herman Cain (right) slap hands following the "Rock Me Like a Herman Cain: South Cain-Olina Primary Rally" in the Cistern Yard at the College of Charleston in Charleston, S.C. on Friday, January 20, 2012. Colbert has said he is running in the South Carolina Republican primary under Herman Cain's name with Cain's blessing. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

College students who filled Cistern Yard at the College of Charleston react to Herman Cain during Stephen Colbert's "Rock Me Like a Herman Cain: South Cain-Olina Primary Rally" in Charleston, S.C. on Friday, January 20, 2012. Colbert has said he is running in the South Carolina Republican primary under Herman Cain's name with Cain's blessing. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Supporters of former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich campaign in downtown Charleston near the Southern Republican Leadership Conference where Gingrich was scheduled to appear in Charleston, S.C. on Friday, January 20, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich watches as his wife Callista (not pictured) reads a children's book to patients with Ellis The Elephant during a visit to MUSC Children's Hospital in Charleston, S.C. on Friday, January 20, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich poses for a photo with a young boy during a visit to MUSC Children's Hospital in Charleston, S.C. on Friday, January 20, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

A Gingrich campaign worker tears down a stage setup after Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich;s campaign event aboard the U.S.S. Yorktown aircraft carrier was moved below deck due to rain in Mt. Pleasant, S.C. on Friday, January 20, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Webelos Boy Scouts from Pack 92 in Mt. Gilead, N.C. were invited onstage during a Newt Gingrich campaign event aboard the U.S.S. Yorktown aircraft carrier in Mt. Pleasant, S.C. on Friday, January 20, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Tiger Cub Boy Scout Jack Jordan from Pack 82 in Mt. Gilead, N.C. gets antsy onstage as Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich speaks during a campaign event aboard the U.S.S. Yorktown aircraft carrier in Mt. Pleasant, S.C. on Friday, January 20, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Poll manager Louise Rouse keeps an eye on voters at the Hazel Parker Playground polling place in downtown Charleston, S.C. on primary day in South Carolina, January 21, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Wafer the service dog waits as his master Ralph Ledford votes at the Hazel Parker Playground polling place in downtown Charleston, S.C. on primary day in South Carolina, January 21, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Volunteer Dillon Radd makes last minute phone calls reminding Republican voters to vote for former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney at a phone bank at a Romney campaign field office in North Charleston, S.C. on primary day in South Carolina, January 21, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Romney campaign volunteer Chris Stevens, 18, of Reston, Va. spins a Mitt Romney sign on Route 17 in North Charleston, S.C. on primary day in South Carolina, January 21, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Citadel sophomore and campaign volunteer Townes Moore stands guard at a backstage entrance at Former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum's primary night rally at the Citadel in Charleston, S.C. on primary night in South Carolina, January 21, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

A defiant Rick Santorum vowed to continue his campaign at a primary night rally at the Citadel in Charleston, S.C. after placing third on primary night in South Carolina, January 21, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum delivers remarks at a primary night rally at the Citadel in Charleston, S.C. after placing third on primary night in South Carolina, January 21, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum embraces his sons after delivering remarks at a primary night rally at the Citadel in Charleston, S.C. after placing third on primary night in South Carolina, January 21, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Thanks for looking!

**Photos copyright Luke Sharrett and The New York Times**

South Carolina Primary: Part 1

2012-01-29T23:07:00.001-05:00

I spent 10 days on the road covering the South Carolina Republican Primary for The New York Times. Here's part one:

Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich, who is running for the Republican nomination for President, poses for photographs with his wife Callista after speaking at the Republican presidential candidate forum and barbecue at James F. Byrnes High School in Duncan, S.C. on Friday, January 13, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Republican presidential candidate and former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum delivers a stump speech during a campaign stop at Popes at the White House restaurant in York, S.C. on Friday, January 13, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Berkley Richards, 9 drinks a Cookout "Fancy Shake" as Republican presidential candidate and former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum makes a campaign stop inside a Cookout restaurant in Gaffney, S.C. on Friday, January 13, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Republican presidential candidate and former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum leaves a Cookout restaurant in Gaffney, S.C. after making a campaign stop on Friday, January 13, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Republican presidential candidate and former Senator Rick Santorum delivers a stump speech while hosting a town hall meeting at The Daniel Island School in Charleston, S.C. on Thursday, January 12, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Republican presidential candidate and former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum delivers a stump speech at Tommy's Country Ham House in Greenville, S.C. on Saturday, January 14, 2012. A portrait of Confederate Civil War General Robert E. Lee hangs on the wall behind him. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Romney supporter Jim Wilson attaches campaign placards to his pickup truck in the parking lot of American Legion Post 15 in Sumter, S.C. before Republican presidential candidate and former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney's campaign event on Saturday afternoon, January 14, 2012. "Since the Iowa straw poll this gypsy's been on the road," said Wilson of himself. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Tom Bragg of Dallas, Tx. sells campaign buttons to Romney supporters waiting in line outside American Legion Post 15 in Sumter, S.C. before Republican presidential candidate and former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney's campaign event on Saturday afternoon, January 14, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Romney supporters wait in line outside American Legion Post 15 in Sumter, S.C. before Republican presidential candidate and former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney's campaign event on Saturday afternoon, January 14, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Republican presidential candidate and former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney delivers a stump speech during a campaign event at American Legion Post 15 in Sumter, S.C. on Saturday afternoon, January 14, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Republican presidential candidate and Texas Governor Rick Perry greets supporters during The South Carolina Faith and Freedom Coalition Prayer Breakfast at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center in Myrtle Beach, S.C. on Sunday morning, January 15, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

An attendee at The South Carolina Faith and Freedom Coalition Prayer Breakfast takes a photo of Republican presidential candidate and Texas Governor Rick Perry with her iPhone at the Myrtle Beach Convention Center in Myrtle Beach, S.C. on Sunday morning, January 15, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Republican presidential candidate Representative Ron Paul holds a campaign event at the Hilton Myrtle Beach Conference Center in Myrtle Beach, S.C. on Sunday afternoon, January 15, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Members of Ron Paul's security detail stand watch as Paul delivers a stump speech at the Hilton Myrtle Beach Conference Center in Myrtle Beach, S.C. on Sunday afternoon, January 15, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Republican presidential candidate Representative Ron Paul is mobbed by media and supporters after holding a campaign event at the Hilton Myrtle Beach Conference Center in Myrtle Beach, S.C. on Sunday afternoon, January 15, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Republican presidential candidate Newt Gingrich attends an awards breakfast commemorating Martin Luther King Jr. Day at the Canal Street Recreation Center in Myrtle Beach, S.C. on the day of the Fox News Republican Debate at the Myrtle Beach Conference Center on Monday, January 16, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Fox News anchor Bret Baier does an on-camera "hit" for local Fox affiliates outside of the Myrtle Beach Conference Center in Myrtle Beach, S.C.on the morning of the Fox News Republican Debate on Monday, January 16, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Fox News anchor Bret Baier's earpiece is seen clipped to his collar after filming several on-camera "hits" for local Fox affiliates on the morning of the Fox News Republican Debate at the Myrtle Beach Conference Center in Myrtle Beach, S.C. on Monday, January 16, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Fox News anchor Bret Baier poses for a photograph with 15 year-old Lexi Thomas of Mt. Pleasant, S.C. on the morning of the Fox News Republican Debate at the Myrtle Beach Conference Center in Myrtle Beach, S.C. on Monday, January 16, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Fox News anchor Bret Baier asks for advice from crew members on which tie to wear during a rehearsal on the afternoon of the Fox News Republican Debate at the Myrtle Beach Conference Center in Myrtle Beach, S.C. on Monday, January 16, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Fox News anchor Bret Baier gets his makeup done before hosting his show "Special Report with Bret Baier" on the evening of the Fox News Republican Debate at the Myrtle Beach Conference Center in Myrtle Beach, S.C. on Monday, January 16, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Fox News anchor Bret Baier hosts his show "Special Report with Bret Bair" with Wall Street Journal reporter Kelly Evans on the evening of the Fox News Republican Debate at the Myrtle Beach Conference Center in Myrtle Beach, S.C. on Monday, January 16, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Texas Governor Rick Perry (left) joked with Former Pennsylvania Senator Rick Santorum (center) as then-frontrunner Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney (right) talked with former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich backstage before the Fox News Republican Debate in Myrtle Beach, S.C. on Monday, January 16, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Then-frontrunner Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney responded to a question during the Fox News Republican Debate in Myrtle Beach, S.C. on Monday, January 16, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Audience members stand and applaud after Newt Gingrich responded to a moderator question during the Fox News Republican Debate in Myrtle Beach, S.C. on Monday, January 16, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Former Pennsylvanian Senator Rick Santorum exits the stage during the last commercial break of the Fox News Republican Debate in Myrtle Beach, S.C. on Monday, January 16, 2012. Luke Sharrett for The New York Times

Thanks for looking!

**Photos copyright Luke Sharrett and The New York Times**

A Few Fall Frames

2011-12-11T20:22:00.001-05:00

A few frames from the fall.

Scotty Carow, 38, of Cody, Wyo. smokes a cigarette while harvesting green beans on Bradley Farms in West Liberty, Ky., Friday, September 1, 2011. "This is the first time I've been out picking beans since I was a little kid," said Carow. "I think I picked them faster back then." Residents of West Liberty have increasingly turned to backyard vegetable gardening to help make ends meet. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Archie Ray Newsome, 81, of Red Boiling Springs, Tenn., takes in the view in front of his son's restored 1957 Chevrolet patrol car during the Somernites Cruise classic car show in downtown Somerset, Ky. October 21, 2011.

A Washington Terminal engineer smokes a cigar while waiting for Amtrak regional train 145 to depart Washington Union Station in Washington, D.C.

Buck Knob Tower Road winds along a mountain ridge near the train tracks in Greenville, Ky.

Construction workers add finishing touches to Kentucky Downs' new Instant Racing cashier counter during a media preview day on Wednesday, August 31, 2011 in Franklin, Ky. Kentucky Downs is the first in the state to have Instant Racing electronic gambling machines. Luke Sharrett/Special to the Herald Leader

Western Kentucky freshman defensive lineman Dwayne Montgomery walks into an inflatable WKU tunnel before Saturday's game against Florida International at home on November 5, 2011. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald

Fireworks explode during the playing of the Star Spangled Banner before Saturday's game against Florida International at home on November 5, 2011. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald

WKU sophomore Ryan Williams cheers at halftime in the stands in Houchens-L.T. Smith during Saturday's game against FIU. WKU beat FIU 10-9. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald

The shadow of a referee runs toward the line of scrimmage while officiating Saturday's game between WKU and Florida International. WKU beat FIU 10-9. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald

High school cheerleaders pose for a group photo during a National Cheerleading Association camp on the campus of Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, Ill. on Thursday, July 27, 2011. SIU admissions counselors sought to recruit female high schoolers in attendance with a raffle and prize giveaway. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Junior defensive setter Sarah Rogers serves during the Lady Toppers first game against Denver on Friday evening in Diddle Arena. WKU won 3-0. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald

Junior outside hitter Jordyn Skinner and the Lady Toppers huddle before sweeping their match against Florida International 3-0 on Friday evening. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald

Thanks for looking!

**Photos copyright Luke Sharrett and The New York Times**

September and more...

2011-10-09T22:49:00.000-04:00

I figured it was time to post some more pictures, so I rounded up some loose sports features floating around my desktop. Leading off are some quadryptchs I took from Amtrak during a train trip up the Northeast Corridor to New York City.

Maryland Area Rail Commuter - Washington Terminal.

Amtrak Ivy City Engine Terminal - Washington, DC.

Virginia Railway Express - Union Station, Washington, DC.

Senior midfielder Kelsey Meyer wipes sweat from her brow late in the first half of the WKU Lady Toppers' home game against Western Carolina University, Friday, August 19, 2011 in Bowling Green. Western won 1-0 in overtime. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald

Redshirt senior forward Mallory Outerbridge embraces redshirt sophomore goalkeeper Kaitlyn Barnes after scoring the winning goal in overtime against Arkansas State on Sunday afternoon, October 2, 2011 in Bowling Green. WKU won 3-2 in overtime. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald

Tailgaters party in "Topperville" across from Van Meter Auditorium before the WKU-Navy football game on Saturday afternoon, September 10, 2011 in Bowling Green. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald

A United States Naval Academy Midshipman directs the Naval Academy Band in the rain during the first quarter of Saturday's home opener on September 10, 2011 in Bowling Green. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald

Seniors Jacqueline Byrne and Chase Woods watch in dejection as Navy pulls ahead over WKU in the second half of Saturday's home opener September 10, 2011 in Bowling Green. WKU lost 40-14. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald

The first 23,000 fans were given from American flags during Saturday's home opener against Navy on September 10, 2011 in Bowling Green. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald

Western event planner Rachel Goodman prepares for a luncheon in advance of a campus award ceremony for the environmental education department outside Ransdell Hall on Tuesday, September 27, 2011. Goodman, the assistant director of campus and community events, has been planning events on and around WKU's campus for the past eleven years. "We get a flavor of every department on campus,"
Goodman said. "So we love that. All the different campus personalities are great."

Thanks for looking!

**Photos copyright Luke Sharrett**

A Hero's Homecoming

2011-09-24T01:40:00.000-04:00

Last Saturday I had the privilege of covering the homecoming parade for Marine Medal of Honor recipient Dakota Meyer in his hometown of Greensburg, Ky. I spent the day shooting for Getty Images and was thankful to be able to cover such a neat event alongside my good friends Leslye Davis and Daniel Houghton. The experience of the whole day was uniquely American in more ways than I can express.

Former active duty Marine Corps Corporal and Medal of Honor recipient Dakota Meyer waves from atop a U.S. military humvee while leading the Cow Days Festival parade down Main Street on September 17, 2011 in his hometown of Greensburg, Ky. Meyer was awarded the Medal of Honor after saving the lives of 36 American and Afghan soldiers while serving with Marine Embedded Training Team 2-8, Regional Corps Advisory Command 3-7, September 8, 2009 during a firefight in Kunar Province, Afghanistan. Meyer is the first living Marine to receive the Medal of Honor since the Vietnam War. (Photo by Luke Sharrett/Getty Images)

Dakota Meyer walks with Kentucky law enforcement officers before leading the Cow Days Festival parade down Main Street on September 17, 2011 in his hometown of Greensburg, Ky.

A United States Marine Corps color guard waits to lead former active duty Marine Corps Corporal and Medal of Honor recipient Dakota Meyer in the Cow Days Festival parade down Main Street in Greensburg, Ky.

Former active duty Marine Corps Corporal and Medal of Honor recipient Dakota Meyer leads the parade from atop a humvee.

Instruments belonging to the Kentucky National Guard 202nd Army Band rest on the street following the Cow Days Festival parade in which former active duty Marine Corps Corporal and Medal of Honor recipient Dakota Meyer was the grand marshall.

Four year-old Michael Lewis of Winchester, Ky. waves an American flag during the parade.

Medal of Honor recipient Dakota Meyer disembarks the humvee on the parade route before taking the stage to be recognized by state and local officials.

Former active duty Marine Corps Corporal and Medal of Honor recipient Dakota Meyer poses for a photograph with his next door neighbor Lewis Garrison (R) and Garrison's grandson Clint Garrison (L) during the Cow Days Festival on Main Street on September 17, 2011 in his hometown of Greensburg, Ky.

Meyer speaks with members of the news media.

A moment of reflection on stage during an awards ceremony.

Signs all over town bore messages of gratitude for Greensburg's son.

Meyer poses for one of hundreds of photos with local friends and supporters taken over the course of the afternoon.

An estimated 20,000 people turned out for the parade, packing out the sidewalks in the 2300 population town of Greensburg, Ky.

Thanks for looking!

**Photos copyright Luke Sharrett and Getty Images**

The Flood That Never Came

2011-08-27T01:39:00.000-04:00

On May 13, 2011 the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers opened the Morganza Spillway in Southern Louisiana and diverted millions of gallons of water per second from the swollen and flooded Mississippi River down into Cajun country in the Atchafalaya Basin. The Corp projected nearly 18 feet of floodwater would settle over the sleepy Cajun hunting community of Butte La Rose. In a matter of days nearly 800 houses and trapping camps were abandoned, effectively rendering Butte La Rose a ghost town. Some residents spent their life savings elevating their homes on stilts and evacuating their families and personal belongings. The people of the Atchafalaya Basin held their collective breath waiting for the massive wall of water to envelope their community. Days passed, then weeks, but the water never came.

A towboat steams downriver on the very swollen Mississippi River past the flooded headquarters of the Golding Barge Line in Vicksburg, Miss. on Sunday, May 22, 2011. Heavy rains across the Midwest and higher than normal springtime snow melt caused one of the largest floods of the Mississippi of the past century. As the crest of the river made its way South into Louisiana, floodwaters threatened to engulf Baton Rouge and New Orleans for the first time since Katrina.

The former Yazoo and Mississippi Valley Railroad Station is seen engulfed in floodwaters from the Mississippi River in downtown Vicksburg, Miss.

Butte La Rose, a Cajun community of hunting and trapping camps nestled in the swamps of the Atchafalaya Basin in Southern Louisiana, would be flooded with eighteen feet of floodwater said officials from the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers. Corp officials made the decision to open the Morganza Spillway North of the Atchafalaya Basin to divert floodwaters moving down the Mississippi river, thereby saving Baton rouge and New Orleans from catastrophic flooding.

Inmates from the St. Martin Parish Jail fill sandbags on the banks of the flooded Atchafalaya River in Butte La Rose, La. Members of the Louisiana National Guard along with volunteers from local correctional facilities worked to shore up low lying areas along the river with sandbag levees to hold back the floodwaters.

Darold Prejean, 67, loads his collection of exotic plants onto a trailer in the driveway of his camp in Butte La Rose. "In the beginning you don't want to believe it. Then you cry about it because you don't want to lose everything. Then you pack up and move on," Prejean said.

A house along the main road in Butte La Rose is seen ringed with sand bags and adorned with an American flag after its occupants packed up and left like the rest of their neighbors. The community of nearly 800 camps was almost completely abandoned three days after the Army Corp of Engineers predicted that 18 feet of water would cover the neighborhood.

Kerry Seal Walker, 53, awaits evacuation in his front yard in Butte La Rose. Walker, a disabled resident without transportation, was the only one who couldn't flee the supposedly doomed neighborhood on his own. St. Martin Parish Sheriff's Deputies promised to pick him up before the floodwaters rose above the levees. "We can't change nothing," Walker said. "It's in God's hands. All we can do is pray."

Butte La Rose residents scrawled messages of hope and defiance on their properties before leaving the Atchafalaya Basin.

Manuel Martinez, 62, loads the last of his belongings into the bed of his pickup truck with the help of his neighbors Emily and Brian Rohdemann. Martinez, originally from San Antonio, Tex., sought shelter in a houseboat in nearby Henderson, La.

Manuel Martinez uproots plants from his vegetable garden along Parish Road 196 in an attempt to save as much of his food and personal belongings as possible from the rising floodwaters.

Manuel makes one last check inside his bayou camp. Little did anyone know that the floodwaters would never reach their projected height of 18 feet above ground level in the Atchafalaya Basin thanks to drought-parched ground upstream toward Morganza. While the residents of Butte La Rose were grateful not to have lost their camps, they still felt the financial and emotional toll of packing up everything and leaving their homes behind for weeks on end.

Thanks for looking.
**Photos copyright Luke Sharrett**

The Circus Train

2011-08-17T00:10:00.001-04:00

Throughout the Fall of 2010 and the Spring of 2011 I caught up with the Ringling Brothers Circus train across the Midwestern United States to work on a photo essay about life on the train. Thanks to my editors on the National Desk at The New York Times I was able to get access to work on the one project that I've wanted to tackle since I first picked up a camera sophomore year of high school. The project ran in the Times on May 30th, 2011.

Though usually pulled by diesel engines, the Union Pacific railroad and the Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey circus collaborated to allow UP's Challenger No. 3985 steam locomotive to pull Ringling's "blue unit" circus train from Speer, Wy. into Denver, Col. on September 28, 2010. The collaboration allowed officials to boast that the world's largest operating steam locomotive had pulled the longest privately owned train in the world. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Priscilla Iverson grabs a drink of water for her daughter Lila Simone as her son Matthew Felipe's morning piano lesson takes place in the cramped kitchen compartment during a stop in Indianapolis, Ind. Thursday, December 2, 2010. Along with raising two children on the road Iverson performs onstage alongside her husband Ringmaster Jonathan Lee Iverson. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Railroad enthusiasts often track the route of Ringling's two circus trains (the Red and Blue units) on internet forums and turn out trackside to photograph and videotape the nearly mile-long trains pass by. Here the Blue Unit rolls into Denver, Co. Tuesday, September 28, 2010. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Circus performers walk down the Union Pacific right of way toward the front of the circus train for a trackside PR stop in Denver, Co. kicking off two weeks of performances in the mile high city, Tuesday September 28, 2010.(Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Boss clown Sandor Eke, 34, of Budapest, Hungary is seen in his compartment onboard the blue unit during a stop in Chicago, Ill., Thursday November 11, 2010. Eke, who has been clowning with Ringling since 1996, grew up in a circus family who performed in Hungary, Sweden and France. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Performers and employees from all over the world call the 65-car circus train home. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

An elephant peeks out from a stock car during unloading near the Capitol Power Plant on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. Tuesday, March 22, 2011. Ringling's use of exotic animals in their shows has drawn the ire of animal rights organizations like People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) in the form of protests and lawsuits. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Ringling animal trainers corral the blue unit's elephants after unloading them near the Capitol Power Plant on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. Tuesday, March 22, 2011. Ringling's use of animals in their shows has prompted protests and lawsuits from animal rights organizations like People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA). (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Union Pacific's Challenger No. 3985 steams into Greely, Co. with the Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey blue unit circus train in tow Tuesday, September 28, 2010. Circus tycoon P.T. Barnum first took to the rails with his self proclaimed "greatest show on earth" in 1872. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

The blue unit's clown troupe waits in a freight yard near O'Hare International Airport to catch a bus for rehearsal before opening night in Chicago, Ill. Thursday November 11, 2010. Performers and employees live on the circus train year-round as the show crisscrosses the United States for two year stints. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Ringling clown Alex Barney smokes a cigarette before a rehearsal with other clowns in Chicago, Ill. The twenty year-old Bridgeport, Conn. native is the first in his family of circus performers to work for Ringling. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Blue unit Head Chef Michael K. Vaughn prepares a breakfast of steak and eggs in the circus train's pie car Friday morning, September 29, 2010 in Denver, Co. A staff of chefs prepare breakfast, lunch, and dinner on demand at a subsidized cost for performers and circus employees that live on the train. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

A table setting in the newly renovated pie car gives a nod to the circus' railroad heritage. Old photos and posters of previous Ringling trains can be found on the walls throughout the pie car. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Ringling electrician Darius Ayers spray paints a passenger car's wheel set, Thursday November 11, 2010 in his hometown of Chicago, Ill. Because the train is constantly moving from town to town, repairs take place on the road during show stops. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

A portrait of blue unit Assistant Trainmaster Joe Colossa of New Briton, Conn. Colossa travels the country with his two daughters, Lilly and Emily, raising them on the road. "Riding on the train is incredible," remarked Colossa. "It's the best part of the show. You're home." (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Ringling dancer Daniele Gianbaolo of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil adjusts her costume as she makes her way to the front of the circus train for a trackside PR stop in Denver, Co., Tuesday September 28, 2010. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

**Photos copyright Luke Sharrett and The New York Times**

Summer

2011-08-06T19:04:00.003-04:00

Summer's been giving me time to go back through photos from the first six months of the year.

Shooting range. Lynchburg, Va.

American Huey 369. West Point, Ky.

Portrait of my good friend Bryan Lemon on the edge of the world. Oregon Inlet bridge, N.C.

Migrant workers harvest tobacco in Southwest Virginia after a late winter snow.

Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey circus elephants from the Blue Unit circus train walk from the CSX mainline in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Washington, D.C.

Fall Creek Falls State Park. Tennessee.

Retired Thoroughbred racehorse Zenyatta at pasture at Lane's End Farm in Versailles, Ky.

A snowy night in tiny Oakland, Ky.

James Boggs, 19, is seen working on his brother Joshua's Chevy Silverado pickup on Cloverlick Creek in the Eastern Kentucky coal mining town of Cumberland, Ky. in Harlan County, Thursday, May 5, 2011. Unlike his younger brother Joshua who is planning to enlist in the Army after graduating high school, James plans to go to work in the coal mines like the rest of his family. "Getting shot at ain't worth a million dollars," James said. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Thanks for looking!

**Photographs copyright Luke Sharrett and/or The New York Times**

The Kentucky Derby

2011-06-12T23:17:00.004-04:00

I had the privilege of covering the 137th running of the Kentucky Derby for AFP (Agence France Presse) at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky. Having worked alongside a talented staff of AFP wire shooters in Washington, it was a treat to have my work appear on the same wire. A real plus of shooting the Derby is working amongst all the professional sports photographer who descend upon Kentucky in the first week of May, as well as friends and fellow PJ's from WKU.

Steam rises from racehorse Miss Havisham as she is given a bath by stablehands in the stable area of Churchill Downs after her morning workout in Louisville, Kentucky on the morning of the 137th running of the Kentucky Derby in Louisville, Kentucky on Saturday, May 7, 2011. AFP PHOTO/LUKE SHARRETT

Patty Ethington of Louisville, Kentucky strolls through the grandstand at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky after the running of the Woodford Reserve Turf Classic on the afternoon of the 137th running of the Kentucky Derby in Louisville, Kentucky on Saturday, May 7, 2011. Horse number 7, Get Stormy, took first place. AFP PHOTO/LUKE SHARRETT

Garrett Gomez atop Banned places first in the 20th running of The American Turf Classic on Kentucky Oaks Day on the eve of the 137th Running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky on Friday, May 6, 2011. AFP PHOTO/LUKE SHARRETT

Charles "Derbyman" Matasich of Proctorville, Ohio (M) poses for photos with his granddaughter 11-year-old Kelly Rae Begil by the paddock at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky on the morning of the 137th running of the Kentucky Derby in Louisville, Kentucky on Saturday, May 7, 2011. Today is the 44th time Matasich has witnessed the Kentucky Derby in person. AFP PHOTO/LUKE SHARRETT

A racing fan places her bet early in the day in the infield of Churchill Downs on the morning of the 137th running of the Kentucky Derby in Louisville, Kentucky on Saturday, May 7, 2011. AFP PHOTO/LUKE SHARRETT

Dressed as Colonel Sanders, Robin Orth of Washington, D.C. poses for pictures with racing fans at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky on the afternoon of the 137th running of the Kentucky Derby in Louisville, Kentucky on Saturday, May 7, 2011. AFP PHOTO/LUKE SHARRETT

Hall of fame jockey Kent Desormeaux shares a laugh with assistants in the jockey's room between races at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky on the afternoon of the 137th running of the Kentucky Derby in Louisville, Kentucky on Saturday, May 7, 2011. AFP PHOTO/LUKE SHARRETT

Jockey Gabriel Saez atop Summer Soiree leads the pack around the first turn of the 137th running of the Kentucky Oaks on the eve of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky on Friday, May 6, 2011. Jockey Martin Garcia atop fillie Plum Pretty, seen here in second place, overtook Summer Soiree to cross the finish line in first place. AFP PHOTO/LUKE SHARRETT

John R. Velazquez atop Animal Kingdom (4th from L) runs in first place toward the finish line to win the 137th running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky on Saturday, May 7, 2011. AFP PHOTO/LUKE SHARRETT

John R. Velazquez celebrates into a television camera atop Animal Kingdom after winning the 137th running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky on Saturday, May 7, 2011. Velazquez was scheduled to ride Uncle Mo but switched to Animal Kingdom after Uncle Mo was scratched from the lineup. AFP PHOTO/LUKE SHARRETT

Steam rises from racehorse Miss Havisham after receiving a bath from stablehands in the stable area of Churchill Downs following her morning workout in Louisville, Kentucky on the morning of the 137th running of the Kentucky Derby in Louisville, Kentucky on Saturday, May 7, 2011. AFP PHOTO/LUKE SHARRETT

Thanks for looking!

**All photographs copyright Luke Sharrett and Agence France Presse**

Alabama Tornadoes

2011-05-25T23:00:00.002-04:00

The day after a deadly tornado hit Tuscaloosa, Alabama, I packed my gear and drove down to Alabama with my good friend Daniel Houghton to cover the aftermath. I was blessed to shoot for The New York Times for three days in Northern and Central Alabama. With so many talented photojournalists working in Tuscaloosa we decided to stick to areas that weren't receiving as much attention from national media outlets. I was overwhelmed with the hope and resilience of the tornado vicitims that I photographed. Almost all of them went out of their to way thank me for telling their story and offer some form of hospitality. One family literally dragged me to the front porch of their destroyed home and wouldn't let me leave until I had eaten some of their food. The weekend in Alabama was incredible and humbling, and my prayers will be with the South as they rebuild in the coming months.

Sheets hang in tornado ravaged trees at sunset in a farming community along Bridgeforth Road near Tanner, Ala. on on Friday, April 30, 2011. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Zackary Lacy and Jordan Anderson climb through the rubble of the destroyed Lakeview Methodist church which lay along the path of a tornado that swept through the community of Tanner, Ala. on Wednesday, April 27, 2011. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Michael Chapman, 34, and his brother Mitch Lee sort through Chapman's belongings strewn in his backyard in Pleasant Grove, Ala. on Sunday, May 1, 2011 four days after tornados tore through central Alabama, killing hundreds on Wednesday, April 27, 2011. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

A reclining chair sits in a debris field of trees ravaged by a tornado that passed through Tanner, Ala. on Wednesday, April 27, 2011 on Bridgeforth Road. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

The remains of a gas station are seen in Arab, Ala. on Friday, April 30, 2011 after a tornado tore through central Alabama on Wednesday. Gas shortages have hit central Alabama, leaving motorists waiting in line for hours at some pumps. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

A resident of the rural farming community on Bridgeforth Road in Tanner, Ala., sits in her driveway after a day of cleanup efforts Saturday, April 30, 2011. A tornado severely damaged the rural farming community after passing through on Wednesday, April 27, 2011. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Pews sit exposed to the elements inside the destroyed Lakeview Methodist church which lay along the path of a tornado that swept through the community of Tanner, Ala. on Wednesday, April 27, 2011. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

A woman sleeps in a Red Cross shelter in the Boutwell Municipal Auditorium in downtown Birmingham, Ala. on the Sunday, May 1, 2011 four days after tornados tour through central Alabama, killing hundreds on Wednesday, April 27, 2011. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Wretha Long, 53, of Birmingham is given a sandwich by Red Cross volunteer Beverly Russell in the Red Cross shelter in the Boutwell Municipal Auditorium in downtown Birmingham, Ala. on Sunday, May 1, 2011. Long, who lived with her daughter in the hard-hit neighborhood of Pleasant Grove, was released from the hospital after heart surgery but had nowhere to go because her daughters house was destroyed by the tornado on Wednesday, April 27, 2011. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

John Lane, 54, of Athens, Ala. sifts through debris in the home of John Henry Bridgeforth's house during cleanup efforts on Bridgeforth Road in Tanner, Ala., Saturday, April 30, 2011. A tornado severely damaged the rural farming community after passing through on Wednesday, April 27, 2011. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

The home of Michael Chapman, 34, of Pleasant Grove, Ala. is seen on Sunday, May 1, 2011 with spray painted markings communicating their insurance providor and favorite Alabama sports team four days after tornados tore through central Alabama, killing hundreds on Wednesday, April 27, 2011. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Handyman Edward McColley, 53, carries a lighting fixture from a destroyed house into a shipping container on Bridgeforth Road in Tanner, Ala., Friday, April 29, 2011. A tornado swept through the community on Wednesday, April 27, 2011 as Alabama was ravaged with tornadic weather. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

A pickup truck thrown by a tornado rests in the Sunset Swim Club near the Clem Mobile Home Park in Athens, Ala., Saturday, April 30th, 2011. The area was devastated by a tornado during a severe weather outbreak in Central Alabama on Wednesday, April 27, 2011. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

A baby pool is filled with debris after a tornado passed through the Sunset Swim Club near the Clem Mobile Home Park in Athens, Ala., Saturday, April 30th, 2011. The area was devastated by a tornado during a severe weather outbreak in Central Alabama on Wednesday, April 27, 2011. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Volunteer construction worker Norman Webb Jr. grabs a cheeseburger from Artemio Perez of the Madison Baptist Church of Madison, Ala. at the Clem Mobile Home Park in Athens, Ala., Saturday, April 30th, 2011. The trailer park was devastated by a tornado during a severe weather outbreak in Central Alabama on Wednesday, April 27, 2011. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

(From left) Ryan and Tanner DeThomas of Atlanta, Ga. clear debris away from Shaler Whiteside's rental house in the community of Caldwell, Ala. on Route 431 East of Glencoe, Ala., Saturday, April 30th, 2011. The community was hard hit by one of the many tornados that tore through central Alabama on Wednesday, April 27, 2011. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Twelfth street in Pleasant Grove, Ala. is seen on Sunday, May 1, 2011 four days after a tornado tore through the town, April 27, 2011. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Thanks for looking!

**Photos copyright Luke Sharrett and The New York Times**

Baltimore-ish

2011-05-11T23:46:00.000-04:00

Here are some more frames from my Zeiss Ikon 6x6 rangefinder. there's nothing like shooting film and developing in the darkroom in a digital world. Enjoy.

Amtrak Executive Chef William Johnson. BWI Rail Station. Maryland.

Cab Driver. BWI Rail Station.

Amtrak Northeast Regional. Union Station. Washington, D.C

BWI Southwest Airlines tarmac.

Baltimore Washington International Airport.

Ringling Bros. Blue Unit unloading. Washington, D.C.

Safe, predictable, academia.

More film.

2011-04-03T17:45:00.000-04:00

More film scans from my Zeiss Super Ikonta B.

Bodie Island Light on the Graveyard of the Atlantic. The Outer Banks, N.C.

Oregon Inlet, N.C.

U.S.S. Wisconsin. Norfolk, Va.

The old C&O Railway. Clifton Forge, Va.

Huntingdon, W.Va.

Hillbilly Hotdogs.

NYC. December 2010.

NYC. 8th Ave.

Wall Street.

**Photos copyright Luke Sharrett**

H(old)ga

2011-03-28T23:37:00.001-04:00

I found some old Holga negatives in a dusty shoebox under my bed. It doesn't make sense to shoot film.

Gloomy morning at Andrews AFB.

Newark, N.J.

The big bird.

South Lawn motorcade.

Marine One.

Capitol Police.

The Pentagon.

Nighthawk 4.

Redskins vs. St. Louis Rams

Washington terminal.

K tower.

Wye.

Thanks for looking!

**Photos copyright Luke Sharrett and The New York Times**

Wrastlin

2011-03-11T20:31:00.012-05:00

Sometimes a good story just falls into your lap. The story of Neil Superior's Wrestling School was one of those stories. Last summer I was grabbing some dinner one Friday night after work in Washington, DC when one of the metro editors from The New York Times gave me a call. She asked if I would accept an assignment in Western Maryland on Saturday night. Details were sparse at the time, but I thought "why not?" It would be a nice change from shooting politics downtown, even if it was on a Saturday night. Sometimes not having much of a social life can have its benefits.

The story ended up being an early midterm election profile on Linda McMahon (Connecticut Republican Senate candidate and wife of WWE CEO Vince McMahon) I met NYT reporter Ray Hernandez in Hagerstown, Md. and we scoured Neil Superior's Professional Wrestling School for any possible ex-WWE pro wrestlers who might have insights on Mrs. McMahon. There were no leads to be found, just a bunch of wide-eyed young wrestlers who dreamt of making it to the big leagues one day. While the photos never ran in print or online, I made a few more visits over the summer and really had a blast shooting photos and making friends with the good folks of Hagerstown.

Aspiring professional wrestler D.J. "Tytan" Crim of Martinsburg, W.Va. gathers his gear before wrestling at Neil Superior's Professional Wrestling School in Hagerstown, Md. Luke Sharrett/The New York Times

Wrestlers collect their thoughts before performing during the weekly Saturday evening practice session in Hagerstown during the Summer. Most wrestling students at Neil Superior's aspire to perform in professional wrestling leagues like the WWE. Luke Sharrett/The New York Times

Housed in the basement of an old warehouse in Hagerstown, Md. the wrestling school draws aspiring amateur wrestlers from Virginia, Maryland, and West Virginia to the weekly matches on most weekends in the Summer. Luke Sharrett/The New York Times

Brian "Shorty Smalls" Noonan grabs the face of wrestler "J-Balla" during a free-for-all match. Performers coordinate their moves and stunts before performing in the ring for the neighborhood fans in Hagerstown. Luke Sharrett/The New York Times

Audience members, most of whom wander in from neighboring streets or are family of the performers, react during a wrestling match at Neil Superior's Professional Wrestling School in Hagerstown. Following the last match of the night fans and performers alike often host a barbecue in the parking lot behind the old warehouse. Luke Sharrett/The New York Times

Referee Fred Stanley of Hagerstown, Md. shows off his homemade knuckle tattoo between officiating wrestling matches. "I'm probably the oldest referee in wrastlin [sic]," he said. "I'm 65 years old!" Luke Sharrett/The New York Times

Matt "Ollie Shortz" Schultz, 18, of Frederick, Md. jumps off the ropes as other wrestlers wait to join outside during Saturday matches in Hagerstown, Md. Students at the school range in age anywhere from 18-50 years old. Luke Sharrett/The New York Times

Former professional wrestler John Rambo poses with his National Wrestling League Heavyweight Championship belt in his backyard next door to Neil Superior's Professional Wrestling School in Hagerstown. Rambo inherited the wrestling school when his mentor Neil Superior died in 1997. He spends most of his time training students, booking matches, and inspiring students with memorable quotes like "Don't be an ass-kisser, be an ass-kicker!" Luke Sharrett/The New York Times

Referee Fred Stanley cools off before officiating several Saturday evening matches in Hagerstown. Luke Sharrett/The New York Times

An hardcore wrestling champion belt lays at the feet of wrestling coach John Rambo in the aging ring at Neil Superior's school. Luke Sharrett/The New York Times

Thanks for looking!

**Photos copyright Luke Sharrett and The New York Times**

PS:

The photographer takes an elbow to the head while shooting ringside at a Saturday night wrestling match.

100% Lynchburg

2011-03-06T21:26:00.001-05:00

Winter break was the first time I had been home in Central Virginia for a long time. It was such a joy to see my family, my dog, and revisit spots around town where I fell in love with photography in high school.

Photos taken with the Zeiss Super Ikonta B (532/16).

**Photos copyright Luke Sharrett**

Travel Pool Polaroids

2011-02-27T17:35:00.002-05:00

Aged to perfection like a fine wine, these Polaroids sat in a dusty shoe box under my bed for nine months. I made these frames on May 26, 2010 on a trip to California with President Obama while I was interning for The New York Times. They were taken with an old Polaroid Land Camera #250 and Fuji FP-100C instant film. There's something strangely gratifying about not being able to see a photograph for more than half a year in this digital age where the constant deadline looms. I'm just happy they survived being stuffed into my Newswear chestvest for two days of constant crawling, running, and jumping into helicopters. Thanks for looking, friends!

Andrews AFB, Md.

San Francisco, Calif.

Motorcade route.

Fremont, Calif.

Nighthawk 4.

SFO.

White House photographer Lawrence Jackson.

**Photos copyright Luke Sharrett and The New York Times**

The Old Guard

2011-01-23T20:35:00.004-05:00

About a year ago I began working on a long-term project focusing on the U.S. Army's 3rd Infantry Regiment "Old Guard." The Old Guard is based at Fort Myer in Arlington, Va. and conducts funeral missions inside Arlington National Cemetery. Whenever I had a rare morning or afternoon off I would try and get over to Fort Myer to shoot. This project hit close to home as this same unit conducted the burial service for my cousin, Pfc. David H. Sharrett in January of 2008.

Soldiers from the U.S. Army's 3rd Infantry Regiment "Old Guard" gather in a parking lot on Fort Myer in Arlington, Va. before conducting funerals for fallen soldiers and veterans in Arlington National Cemetery across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The Old Guard Caisson Platoon is the equestrian unit assigned to Arlington National Cemetery. Headquartered on neighboring Fort Myer, the unit transports the caskets of fallen soldiers into the cemetery with two horse-pulled caisson teams. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Distinguished from other Army units by their precision and attention to detail, Old Guard soldiers wear Army "dress blue" uniforms and riding boots while performing their missions in the cemetery. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Caisson Team soldiers start their preparation at 3:30 am everyday by washing and grooming the unit's horses in their Fort Myer stables. Like the Old Guard's soldiers, the horses wear their hair short. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

An Old Guard soldier prepares his dress uniform for a day of funeral duty in the cemetery. Founded in 1784, the Old Guard remains the oldest active duty infantry unit in the United States Army. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Specialist Benjamin Nelms, a two and a half year veteran of the Old Guard, reveals a tattoo he received in honor of his uncle Kenneth D. Scott who was killed in combat during Operation Iraqi Freedom. It was after witnessing his uncle's burial in Arlington Cemetery that Nelms decided to transfer to the Old Guard. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

"It's about respect and honor for fallen comrades, fallen brothers and sisters. It's our last chance to give them the respect that they've earned." - Spec. Nelms. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Last minute inspections of the "black team's" caisson and harness are performed before rolling out for a day of funeral duty in Arlington Cemetery. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

An old guard soldier shares a light moment before the morning's somber missions in Arlington Cemetery. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The Old Guard Caisson Team carries the flag-draped casket of United States Marine Corporal Jacob H. Turbett during the funeral procession before his burial service at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va., Tuesday, March 9, 2010. Cpl. Turbett was killed in action on February 13 while serving in Operation Enduring Freedom on Helmand Province, Afghanistan. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The Old Guard Caisson Team escorts the casket of Army Staff Sgt. Nekl B. Allen to his burial site in Section 60 at Arlington National Cemetery, Thursday, October 8, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Old Guard soldiers carry the casket of Army Staff Sgt. Nekl B. Allen through Section 60. Allen was killed in combat in Wardak Province, Afghanistan on September 12, 2009 (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

10th Mountain Division Commander Maj. Gen. James L. Terry presents a folded American flag to Grace Allen, 5, daughter of Army Staff Sgt. Nekl B. Allen, during the burial service of her father at Arlington National Cemetery. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The Old Guard Escort Platoon stands at attention during Staff Sgt. Nekl B. Allen's burial in the cemetery. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The Old Guard's mission statement is to "honor fallen comrades and communicate the story of the U.S. Army to our nation's citizens and the world." (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Thanks for looking.
**Photos copyright Luke Sharrett and The New York Times**

End of twenty ten

2011-01-06T17:33:00.000-05:00

Here are some favorites from October, November, and December.

Western Kentucky redshirt freshman defensive back Denton Allmon takes his place on the line of scrimmage during the second quarter of The Hilltoppers' the 33-6 homecoming loss to North Texas in Bowling Green on Saturday, October 30, 2010. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald

With 2:32 left on the game clock Junior Kicker Casey Tinius' 34 yard field goal attempt fell short after being tipped at the line of scrimmage by Middle Tennessee State University, cementing WKU's 27-26 loss at home, Saturday November 20, 2010. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald

WKU Junior running back Avery Hibbitt casts an anxious look toward the pitch inside Houchens-Smith stadium before taking the field for Western's last home football game of the 2010 season. The Hilltoppers' hopes of at least one win at home was dashed in a 27-26 loss to Middle Tennessee State. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald

Western Kentucky Sophomore wide receiver Dexter Haynes says a sideline prayer before kickoff of WKU's last home game of the 2010 season, Saturday November 20, 2010. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald

Sophomore linebacker Tavis Ciochetty comforts fellow sophomore linebacker Tyler Julian on the sidelines as the game clock ran down in the fourth quarter, sealing WKU's 33-6 loss against North Texas in Bowling Green on Saturday afternoon, October 30, 2010. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald

Head Coach Travis Hudson rallies the Lady Toppers during a time-out in the midst of the second game of WKU's final home match of the season against Middle Tennessee State in Diddle Arena, Friday, November 12, 2010. WKU lost to MTSU 3-0. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald

Floyd Knobs, Ind. freshman setter Melanie Stutsman sets the ball during the Lady Toppers' third game against rivals Middle Tennessee State at home in Diddle Arena on Friday, November 12, 2010. WKU lost to MTSU 3-0. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald

My remote camera setup. Canon 1D Mark IV & 135mm f/2.

A Middle Tennessee State fan signals match point against WKU during the final round of the 2010 Sun Belt Conference Volleyball Championship in Murfreesboro, Tenn., Saturday night, November 20, 2010. WKU lost 3-1 to MTSU. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald.

Hilltopper fan junior Tray Allen and WKU cheerleader junior Beth Anne Ralph stand for homecoming portraits on campus before Saturday afternoon's football game in Bowling Green, Ky. September 30, 2010. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald

A man who identified himself only as "Santa" stands for a homecoming portrait on campus before Saturday afternoon's football game in Bowling Green, Ky. September 30, 2010. Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald

Senior Groundskeeper Joseph Taylor of Bowling Green is seen before starting his rounds to pick up litter outside the Downing University Center on WKU's campus, Wednesday, December 1, 2010. Taylor, a nine-year veteran of WKU's groundskeeping crew, dreams of enrolling in classes on the hill to become a history teacher, but is stuck picking up litter and cigarette butts for the time being. "People are always complaining about cigarette butts," Taylor said. "But to me, that's job security."

International student Gongbo Liang is pictured under a projection of Chinese characters meaning "journey," signifying the roughly 6,562 miles "as the crow flies" from Shenyang, China, to Bowling Green. Liang came to WKU in August 2009 to pursue a major in folk studies.

(Left) 91 year-old Mae Wesley's home outside Eubank, Ky. on September 26, 2008.

(Right) The Wesley's new house outside Eubank, Ky. two years later on September 25, 2010.

Eubert Wesley lives with his 91 year-old mother Mae and two brothers along the train tracks in rural Eubank, Ky, farming and working at a mattress factory in nearby Somerset.

19 year-old trainhopper "Skooba Steve" takes a drag from his cigarette while panhandling on the 13th Street Pedestrian Mall in downtown Denver, Co. Steve and friends arrived into Denver the previous day from Fort Collins and were looking to catch a freight train South to New Orleans for Halloween.

Steve shows off a necklace of beer tabs and keys found during his travels hopping freight trains in the Midwest United States.

Thanks for looking!

**Photos Copyright Luke Sharrett and The College Heights Herald**

Election Day

2010-11-28T22:43:00.007-05:00

On November 2 the much-awaited midterm Senate and House elections took place across the country. I was blessed to be a part of a team of New York Times freelancers and staffers stationed around the U.S.

I spent election day photographing polling places in Bowling Green, Ky. (the hometown of Republican Senate Candidate Rand Paul.)

My first East Coast deadline was 8am (7am in Bowling Green.) With polls opening at 6am, I had a little under an hour to make some early photos for the web. After making deadline I hit other polling places across town, transmitting periodically to "feed the beast." Later in the morning I covered Rand Paul voting at a local elementary school, as well as some of his supporters demonstrating along main roads in Bowling Green.

As the day progressed I covered more ground in Bowling Green and marked a spot on the press riser at Paul's election night party at the Bowling Green convention center. It was a joy to shoot alongside my good friend Daniel Houghton as well as other WKU PJ's who were freelancing for area newspapers. Kentucky's polls were some of the earliest to close in the nation, so we didn't have to wait long before Paul appeared on stage with his family to declare victory. It was a17-hour work day, and I enjoyed every minute of it. What a privilege it is to take photographs for a living.

Warren County schools were closed on election day as gymnasiums and cafeterias were transformed into polling places for Western Kentucky voters in Bowling Green, Ky., November 2, 2010. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

An election official passed out "I voted" stickers to Kentucky voters who cast their ballots early election day morning at a polling place in Bowling Green, Ky., November 2, 2010. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Election officials search for a voter's address on a precinct map at a polling place in Bowling Green, Ky. on election day morning, November 2, 2010. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Republican Senate Candidate and Tea Party favorite Dr. Rand Paul speaks with the media after voting at Briarwood Elementary School with his wife Kelley and son Robert in Bowling Green, Ky, on election day, November 2, 2010. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Rina Malmquist, left, a campaign volunteer and neighbor of Republican Senate Candidate Dr. Rand Paul, and her son Jacob Malmquist wave to passing motorists on the corner of a busy intersection in Bowling Green, Ky. on election day, November 2, 2010. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Television news correspondents prepare for live shots at the site of Republican Senate candidate Dr. Rand Paul's election night victory party at the Convention Center in Bowling Green, Ky., November 2, 2010. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Republican Senate candidate Dr. Rand Paul celebrates his win over Democrat Jack Conway at his election night victory party at the Convention Center in Bowling Green, Ky., November 2, 2010. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

**Photos copyright Luke Sharrett and The New York Times**

Kentucky Machine Gun Shoot

2010-10-28T21:53:00.005-04:00

According to FBI statistics, an all-time high of 14 million firearms were sold in the United States in 2009. Sales surged following the election of President Barack Obama as fears of an assault weapons ban mounted, bringing the per-capita number of civilian owned firearms to 90 for every 100 American citizens according to a study by the Graduate Institute of International Studies. While Americans have traditionally united around interests like religion, sport, or politics, social circles cemented by a common bond of firearm ownership are an increasingly reality. The Fall 2010 Knob Creek Machinegun Shoot in West Point, Ky. showcases privately-owned arsenals of restricted "Class III" fully automatic assault rifles, belt-fed machineguns, and large calibre rifles. The weekend is a trans-generational celebration of all things gun.

Participants in the 2010 Knob Creek Machinegun Shoot are seen on the firing line during a late afternoon session at the Knob Creek Range in West Point, Ky. Enthusiasts fired volleys downrange from belt-fed machineguns spanning the past century as well as large .50 calibre sniper rifles throughout the day on Saturday, October 9, 2010.

Outside the 2010 Knob Creek Machinegun Shoot an extensive historical recreation military camp featured World War II era Nazi memorabilia, vehicles, and weapons complete with re-enactors wearing Wermacht, Nazi, and SS insignia. "Next year we'll be here as the good guys." re-enactor Robert Decker of Bowling Green, Ky. said.

Restored Vietnam-era Huey Medevac Helictopter #369 circled above West Point, Ky. for the duration of the weekend shoot, offering veterans and aviation enthusiasts a chance to experience the shoot from the air.

The exhibition and firing of restricted "Class 3" full-auto and large calibre weapons has become much of a spectator sport in recent years.

Machine gun enthusiasts aim their weapons downrange at a variety of targets including old appliances, refrigerators, automobiles, and boats loaded with "Tannerite," a legal explosive "reactionary" charge.

A life-size cutout of Secretary of State Hilary Clinton stands at attention with the words "Great target" hand scrawled across its $25.00 price tag. Conservative gun enthusiasts still harbor feelings of resentment toward the Federal Government for grievances such as the Clinton-era assault weapons ban, Ruby Ridge, and Waco.

Evidence of gun owners' Southern and Confederate heritage can be seen inside the "pro shop" at Knob Creek Range, home of the largest Machine Gun Shoot in the South.

Shooters break for lunch inside Knob Creek Range's dining hall, though the rattle of automatic weapons continued just outside.

To legally own and operate fully automatic weapons, firearm owners must purchase Class 3 permits and subject themselves to detailed background checks. One of the most popular features of the shoot is the ability to rent time on privately owned machineguns.

A World War II re-enactor laughs at a joke late in the day outside the 2010 Knob Creek Machine Gun Shoot.

A young man carries a sixty year-old M1 Garand rifle during the shoot. Gun ownership and enthusiasm spans generations across the U.S.

Thanks for looking!

**Photos copyright Luke Sharrett**

World Equestrian Games

2010-10-24T17:36:00.001-04:00

In September I had the privilege of covering the first two days of the World Equestrian Games for the New York Times. This year was the first ever that the WEG were held in the United States, and what state would be more appropriate to host than Kentucky?

Day two was the endurance competition, a rigorous 100 mile marathon for horses and their riders. At the end of each 20 mile segment the horses were doused with cold water to lower their heart rates, then were inspected by veterinarians before being allowed to return to the course.

Covering endurance was a logistical challenge. 30 photographers crammed into two 12-passenger vans and raced toward privately owned farms, hoping to catch the leading horses riding through the scenic Eastern Kentucky landscapes.

Being able to compete against so many experienced photographers from all over the world was a treat, as well as meeting photojournalists whose work I admire like Caren Firouz (Senior Photojournalist for Reuters in Iran) and Larry W. Smith (Contract photographer for European Pressphoto Agency in the Midwest United States)

An early morning Dressage work out for a member of the Italian Equestrian team on the opening day of the 2010 Alltech World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Ky., Saturday, September 25, 2010. (Luke Sharrett for the New York Times)

Bogdan Czarnik of Poland rides "Colonel Pepenator" during the second round of the Reining competition on the opening day of the 2010 Alltech World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Ky., Saturday, September 25, 2010. (Luke Sharrett for the New York Times)

A lone rider is seen shortly after crossing the starting line of the Endurance competition on the second day of the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Ky., Sunday, September 26, 2010. (Luke Sharrett for the New York Times)

A Spanish equestrian crosses a covered bridge on a farm during the second leg of the Endurance competition during the second day of the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Ky., Sunday, September 26, 2010. (Luke Sharrett for the New York Times)

German Equestrian Gabrielle Forster competes in the Endurance competition during the second day of the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Ky., Sunday, September 26, 2010. (Luke Sharrett for the New York Times)

German equestrians wash a horse to bring down its heart rate in the Endurance competition during the second day of the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Ky., Sunday, September 26, 2010. (Luke Sharrett for the New York Times)

Equestrians clean the hoof of a competing horse at a crew check station during Endurance competition on the second day of the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Ky., Sunday, September 26, 2010. (Luke Sharrett for the New York Times)

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum of Dubai leads a pack of Arab riders in the fourth leg of the Endurance competition during the second day of the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Ky., Sunday, September 26, 2010. (Luke Sharrett for the New York Times)

American Heather Reynolds rides "Samiam" across the finish line after completing the Endurance competition during the second day of the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Ky., Sunday, September 26, 2010. (Luke Sharrett for the New York Times)

Arab influence in the World Equestrian Games has increased in recent years.
(Left) Team members from the United Arab Emirates seek shelter from the mid-day sun in a luxury tent constructed on the grounds of the Games.
(Right) A member of the UAE team carries the United Arab Emirates flag inside the UAE's luxury tent on the first day of the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Ky., Saturday, September 25, 2010. (Luke Sharrett for the New York Times)

Thanks for looking!

**Photos copyright Luke Sharrett**

The Rosine Barn Jamboree

2010-10-20T17:38:00.001-04:00

Bluegrass on a fall Kentucky evening at the Rosine Barn Jamboree. Rosine, Ky.

Don Stanley and Middle Creek at the Rosine Barn Jamboree. Rosine, Ky.

Theo Koontz, 93, listens to bluegrass on the front porch of the Rosine General Store during the Rosine Barn Jamboree in Rosine, Ky.

Henry Dehart, 57, listens to bluegrass in front of the Rosine General Store. Dehart has lived in the same house he was born in for his entire life in Rosine, Ky.

**Photos copyright Luke Sharrett**

Back to school

2010-10-15T15:42:00.004-04:00

Here are some of my favorite photos I've taken since being back at school. I'm looking forward to posting a couple of essays in the coming days as well. Thanks for looking!

Indiana Hoosiers sophomore punter Adam Pines of Highland Park, Ill. looks on during the third quarter of the their away game against Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, Ky., Saturday, September 18, 2010. Indiana beat Western 38-21. (Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald)

Western Kentucky senior linebacker Chris Bullard walks through the day's last light beneath the University of Kentucky's Commonwealth Stadium in Lexington, Ky. following pre-game drills, Saturday, September 11, 2010. The UK Wildcats routed the WKU Hilltoppers 28-63.

Western defensive back Orlando Misaalefua paces the sideline during the fourth quarter of Western Kentucky's home opener against the University of Indiana Hoosiers, Saturday, September 18, 2010 in Bowling Green, Ky. Most fans had abandoned their seats in L.T. Smith Stadium by the end of the third quarter, safely predicting Western's 21-38 loss against Indiana. (Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald)

Western junior middle-hitter Lindsay Williams hits past the Virginia Tech defense during the Lady Toppers' home game against the Virginia Tech Hokies in Diddle Arena in Bowling Green, Ky. on Friday, September 10, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The College Heights Herald)

Western Kentucky SAE freshman fraternity pledges mingle with upperclassmen while wearing blazers and ties in the heat of the day during tailgating on campus Saturday, September 18, 2010.

Western Kentucky senior Dustin Garvin shows his support for both WKU and the University of Kentucky by wearing a home-made T-shirt outside the University of Kentucky's Commonwealth Stadium during pre-game tailgating Saturday, September 11. 2010. "It was the best twelve dollars I've ever spent."

University officials, friends and family members gather beneath Guthrie Bell Tower for a memorial service honoring 2008 Western grad 1st Lt. Eric D. Yates on Thursday, September 23, 2010 in Bowling Green, Ky. Yates was killed in combat when his 101st Airborne Division foot patrol was hit with an IED in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan.

ROTC Cadets stand in formation at the foot of the Guthrie Bell Tower during a memorial service for 1st Lt. Eric D. Yates on the South Lawn of Western Kentucky University on Thursday. 1st Lt. Yates graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies and History in 2008.

A Western Kentucky University student listens to her iPod while strolling past a helmet and M-16 rifle memorializing 2008 grad 1st Lt. Eric D. Yates. Few of the Western's nearly 21,000 enrolled students appeared at the South Lawn memorial service for their fellow Hilltopper who fell serving with the 101st Airborne Division in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan.

A Tea Party favorite, Senate Candidate Rand Paul shakes hands with Tea Party patriot Paul Wheeler following a campaign rally outside of Cincinnati, Saturday, October 2, 2010. (Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

Kentucky Republican Senate Candidate Dr. Rand Paul is seen following a campaign rally with his father Rep. Ron Paul (R-Tex.) and son William Paul in the Northern Kentucky town of Erlanger, Saturday, October 2, 2010.(Luke Sharrett for The New York Times)

**Photos copyright Luke Sharrett**

Eight days on a train

2010-10-04T19:00:00.004-04:00

Last month I had a week and a half between the end of my internship and the beginning of school, so I decided to do what any normal person would: take an eight-day transcontinental train trip across the United States.

Day One: Amtrak's Southern Crescent at Kemper Street Station in Lynchburg, Va.

Crossing the James River in Amherst, Va. on a trestle built by the Southern Railway in 1912.

Snaking along the Potomac River in West Virginia.

Day Three: Sunset on the Western edge of the Colorado Rockies.

Utah.

Days 4 & 5: Telegraph lines. Utah Desert. Pacific Ocean.

Sunrise. Mid-day. Sunset. Mid-night. 24 hours on the train.

Day 6: Dwayne Gooden and "Tori." Los Angeles, Ca.

Day 7: Travel fatigue.

Day 7: Midnight smoke stop in Cleveland, Ohio.

Thanks for looking!

**All photos copyright Luke Sharrett**

Morac re-edit

2010-09-15T00:14:00.006-04:00

A year ago I spent two weeks working in North Africa and shooting on the side. I'm not sure I knew what photojournalism was at the time. Maybe I still don't. Maybe I never will. I felt drawn back to the photos to do another edit. Such a timeless culture full of incredible people.

The old medina, Casablanca.

Djemaa el Fna, Marrakech.

Marrakech - Casablanca

Thanks for looking!

**Photos copyright Luke Sharrett**

Final Frames and Farewell

2010-08-17T16:09:00.005-04:00

Here are a few final frames from D.C.
Shooting in Washington over the last year has been a blast, but the real treat has been working alongside my mentors Doug Mills and Stephen Crowley, as well as all the incredible shooters in the Washington Press Corp. I owe a debt of gratitude to everyone who invested in me and helped me along the way. It will be hard not to see such a great group of folks every day.

United States Secret Service Agents keep watch as Marine One, with President Barack Obama aboard, lifts off from the Manhattan helipad in New York City, N.Y., Wednesday, July 28, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama's motorcade travels down Park Avenue enroute to a DNC fundraiser at the Four Seasons Hotel in midtown Manhattan, Wednesday, July 28, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

An NYPD Officer wipes sweat from his brow as President Barack Obama's motorcade zips through Midtown Manhattan after participating in a taping of "The View" at ABC Studios in New York City, N.Y., Wednesday, July 28, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Nighthawk 4 lifts off from the Manhattan helipad on the Hudson River with the White House Press Corp aboard enroute to Newark International Airport, Wednesday, July 28, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama shares a laugh with worker Max White during a tour of the Gelberg Sign Company in the Takoma neighborhood of Washington, D.C., Friday, August 6, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama is seen after signing a bill in the Oval Office of the White House giving $26 billion in aid to teachers, Tuesday, August 10, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama returns to the South Lawn of the White House aboard Marine One following a day trip to Michigan to tour auto manufacturing plants, Friday, July 30, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Air Force Personnel remove the staircase from Air Force One at Andrews Air Force Base following President Barack Obama's trip to Texas, Monday, August 9, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The Los Angeles Street Soccer team huddles before playing Montgomery County, Md. in a final round match at the USA Street Soccer Championship at Washington Kastles Stadium, Sunday, August 1, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

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Maron Lux Bal, 19, of Los Angeles, Calif. rests on the ground after falling to Montgomery County, Md. in a final round match at the USA Street Soccer Championship at Washington Kastles Stadium, Sunday, August 1, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

**All photos copyright Luke Sharrett and The New York Times**

July

2010-08-08T19:03:00.004-04:00

July was my last full month interning for the New York Times in Washington, D.C.
Every trip, every sweaty motorcade movement, and yes, every Pelosi press conference was cherished.
I hope these photos reflect my best work from the month, but I know deep down that the photos I will treasure most are those of my friends and colleagues in the travel pool. I have learned so much amongst this group of professionals, and am most grateful to have shared a few beers with them over the past few months.

Air Force One is seen on the tarmac at McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas, Nev., Thursday, July 8, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Agents of the United States Secret Service Presidential Protection Division are reflected in a teleprompter following President Barack Obama's stump speech for Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid in Las Vegas, Nev., Thursday, July 8, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama's limousine is seen outside the Folly Theater in downtown Kansas City, Mo. following a fundraiser for Secretary Robin Carnahan, Thursday, July 8, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama delivers remarks at a fundraiser for Secretary Robin Carnahan at the Folly Theater in downtown Kansas City, Mo., Thursday, July 8, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A Marine One helicopter taxis past Air Force One at Andrews Air Force Base near Washington, D.C. following President Barack Obama's trip to a groundbreaking ceremony for a hybrid automobile battery factory in Holland, Mich., Thursday, July 15, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

United States Secret Service Agents maneuver President Barack Obama's limousine at Kansas City International Airport before he delivered remarks on the economy at the Smith Electric Vehicles plant across the tarmac, Thursday, July 8, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama emerges from a tent to deliver remarks at a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Compact Power, Inc., hybrid automobile battery factory in Holland, Mich., Thursday, July 15, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Counter-sniper teams keep watch before President Barack Obama's remarks at a groundbreaking ceremony for the new LG Chem Compact Power, Inc., hybrid automobile battery factory in Holland, Mich., Thursday, July 15, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama slips back into his suit coat after trying out the new Chevrolet Volt with Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm following remarks at a groundbreaking ceremony for the new LG Chem Compact Power, Inc., hybrid automobile battery factory in Holland, Mich., Thursday, July 15, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Secret Service Agents and White House personnel are seen at a landing zone in Tulip City, Mich. before President Barack Obama's remarks at a groundbreaking ceremony for the new LG Chem Compact Power, Inc. hybrid automobile battery factory in Holland, Mich., Thursday, July 15, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Onlookers gathered in downtown Bar Harbor, Maine to try and catch a glimpse of President Barack Obama on the first night of his family vacation in Maine. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs fields a barrage of questions from reporters regarding the Wikileaks military document leak during the White House Daily Briefing, Monday, July 26, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) at right, and Senator John Kerry (D-Mass.) leave a Democratic caucus before holding a press conference on climate and energy on Capitol Hill, Thursday, July 22, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The late Senator Robert Byrd (D-W.VA.) is carried down the East Senate Steps of the U.S. Capitol by a military honor guard after laying in state on the Senate Floor, Thursday, July 1, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A Christian demonstrator carries a mannequin of Jesus Christ outside the United States House of Representatives on Capitol Hill. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

An Air Force C130-J is seen on the runway at Bar Harbor Airport in Maine after transporting Secret Service agents, equipment, and members of the White House Press Corp to Maine for President Barack Obama's weekend vacation with his family.

Ready for the flight home from Bar Harbor, Maine to Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland.

Upon landing at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland, the ramp of our Air Force C-130J was lowered, allowing the afternoon light to flood in and illuminate the interior.

Representatives from the National Law Enforcement Museum announced a donation of artifacts from the estate of former F.B.I. Director J. Edgar Hoover to the museum, Wednesday, July 7, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Arlington, Va. residents watch 4th of July fireworks from the Route 50 pedestrian bridge across the Potomac River from the Nation's Capitol.

A late-night chess game in Lafayette Park.

A passenger waits for his train in the late evening sun on the platform at Baltimore's Penn. Station, Wednesday, July 21, 2010 in Baltimore, Md. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

June

2010-07-09T11:18:00.003-04:00

June was a good month. I had the privilege of traveling to Canada for the G8 and G20 summits in the White House Travel Pool. A big shout-out is deserved for the AP's Charles Dharapak, Reuters' Jason Reed, and AFP's Saul Loeb for taking me under their wing and helping a rookie like me through the summits. There's hardly a better group of photojournalists to spend 3 exhausting days of shooting with. Truly an honor to be there.

A secret service agent removes an America flag from President Barack Obama's limousine after the President traveled to the Washington Hilton hotel to deliver remarks at a gathering of the American Nurses Association, Wednesday, June 16, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama's limousine is seen at the Washington Hilton hotel, Wednesday, June 16, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The President's microphone and stool are seen following a town hall with senior citizens regarding Medicare at the Holiday Park Multipurpose Senior Center, Monday, June 7, 2010 in Wheaton, Md. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Senior citizens listen as President Barack Obama takes questions during a town hall with senior citizens regarding Medicare at the Holiday Park Multipurpose Senior Center, Monday, June 7, 2010 in Wheaton, Md. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama greets diplomats and local officials upon disembarking Air Force One at Lester B. Pearson International Airport in Toronto, Canada enroute to Muskoka, Canada for the G8 Summit, Friday, June 25, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

From Left, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Senegalese President Abdoulaye Wade, U.S. President Barack Obama, Nigerian President Goodluck Johnson, and French President Nicolas Sarkozy following a "Family Photo" with G8 Leaders and African Outreach Leaders during the 2010 G8 Summit at the Deerhurst Resort at Muskoka in Hunstville, Ontario, Canada, Friday, June 25, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/Pool)

Hands of world leaders are seen following the 2010 G20 Summit family photo in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Sunday, June 27, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/Pool)

U.S. President Barack Obama participates in a bilateral meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan during the 2010 G20 Summit in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Sunday, June 27, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Canadian security officials are seen inside the G20 Summit security perimeter in downtown Toronto, June 26, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A Marine One helicopter and a support chopper are seen over the Gulf Coast of Louisiana following President Barack Obama's visit to Grand Isle, La. to survey the effects of the BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill, Friday, June 4, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Somewhere over Northern Ontario with the Marines of Nighthawk 4...

President Barack Obama's motorcade departs Andrews Air Force Base, Monday, June 7, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama's motorcade speeds through the night from Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland back to the Washington, D.C.

President Barack Obama during an off the record stop at Jerry's Family Restaurant in Mount Pleasant, Iowa. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Senator Jack Reed (D-R.I.) during a bicameral conference in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill regarding the merging of House and Senate financial reform legislation, Thursday, June 24, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Senate Judicial Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.) and Supreme Court Nominee Elena Kagan are seen through the hearing room doors during the third day of confirmation hearings in the Senate Judiciary Committee on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, June 30, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Supreme Court Nominee Elena Kagan returns from a short recess during the third day of her confirmation hearings in the Senate Judiciary Committee on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, June 30, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Supreme Court Nominee Elena Kagan (middle) faced questions from Senators including (clockwise from top left) Ranking Member Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.), Committee Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Ted Kaufman (D-Del.), Arlen Specter (D-Pa.), Al Franken (D-Minn.), Jon Kyl (R-Ariz.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) during the third day of her confirmation hearings in the Senate Judiciary Committee on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, June 30, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Treasury Secretary Timothy F. Geithner testifies before the Senate Financial Committee regarding economic relations and currency with China on Capitol Hill Thursday, June 10, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A protestor interrupts proceedings as BP CEO Tony Hayward begins testifying before the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations regarding the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico on Capitol Hill, Thursday, June 17, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Rep. Steve Scalise (R-La.) questions BP CEO Tony Hayward with a photo of an oil-covered Pelicanduring a hearing in the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations regarding the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico on Capitol Hill, Thursday, June 17, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Secretary of Defense Robert Gates and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Admiral Mike Mullen hold a press conference at the Pentagon to deliver remarks and answer questions regarding the resignation of General Stanley McChyrstal, Thursday, June 24, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Four Star General David H. Patraeus gives a thumbs up during his confirmation hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee on Capitol Hill, Tuesday, June 29, 2010. Patraeus was later confirmed 99-0 by the Senate. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Capitol Police Officers guard "Code Pink" protestors during the confirmation hearing of General David H. Patraeus before the Senate Armed Services Committee on Capitol Hill, Tuesday, June 29, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times/Pool)

Washington Nationals Rookie Pitcher Stephen Strasburg warms up in the bullpen before earning 14 strikeouts in his first major league start on the mound, Tuesday, June 8, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A woman sleeps at a bus stop with a note pinned to her jacket reading "need $$ for food" on 8th Avenue in New York City, N.Y. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Thanks for looking!
**All photos copyright Luke Sharrett and The New York Times**

May

2010-06-11T19:30:00.004-04:00

Here are photos from the month of may. A bit overdue. Still trying to find who I am behind the camera.

President Barack Obama walks from Marine One to Air Force One at Andrews Air Force Base near Washington, D.C. before traveling to San Francisco, Calif. to appear at a fundraiser for Senator Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) Tuesday, May 25, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Marines from Nighthawk wait to depart an LZ at the base of the Golden Gate bridge in San Francisco, Calif. Wednesday, May 26, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The Golden Gate bridge in San Francisco, Calif. seen trough heavy exhaust from Nighthawk 4, Wednesday, May 26, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama delivers remarks before dessert and musical performances by Rodrigo y Gabriela, Beyonce, and the Marine Corp Band in a tent on the South Lawn of the White House following the State Dinner in honor of Mexico, Wednesday, May 19, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A United States Secret Service Agent awaits the arrival of President Barack Obama on the White House South Lawn.

Capricia Marshall, Chief Of Protocol, slips on the steps of the North Portico of the White House as President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama look on before the State Dinner in honor of Mexico, Wednesday, May 19, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Bystanders watch as President Barack Obama's motorcade passes by in downtown San Francisco, Calif.

House Minority Leader John Boehner (R-Ohio) speaks during a press conference on the national debt and the budget with Minority Whip Eric Cantor, and Rep. Mike Pence (R-Ind.) on Capitol Hill, Thursday, May 27, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A Code Pink protestor stands behind Lamar McKay, President and Chairman of B.P. America Inc., before a hearing of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources on Capitol Hill, Tuesday, May 11, 2010 in Washington, D.C.. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Senator Robert C. Byrd (D-W.Va.) yells at Massey Energy President and CEO Don Blankenship during a hearing of the Senate Appropriations Labor, Health and Human Services Subcommittee on Capitol Hill regarding the Massey Energy Upper Big Branch coal mine explosion, Thursday, May 20, 2010 in Washington, D.C.(Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Justice Department Officials with a placard detailing the failed Times Square car bomb as Attorney General Eric Holder hosts a press conference at the Justice Department, Tuesday, May 4, 2010 in Washington, D.C.. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Representative Paul Ryan (R-Wisconsin) in his office in the Longworth House Office Building on Capitol Hill, Thursday, April 29, 2010.

New York Mets Left Fielder Jason Bay slides into second base in the first inning of the New York Mets' game against the Washington Nationals, Thursday, May 20, 2010 in Washington, D.C. Bay was called safe on account of an error by Nationals Short Stop Ian Desmond. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Graduating Cadets wait for President Barack Obama to deliver a commencement address at the United States Military Academy at West Point, Saturday, May 22, 2010 in West Point, N.Y. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Headstones from Section 60 of Arlington National Cemetery are reflected in photographs of fallen American Servicemen and women the day before Memorial Day, May 30, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A dreary Sunday in Harper's Ferry, W.Va.

A worker from the maintenance shift of an MOW Railgrinder takes a breather on the Norfolk Southern railroad siding in Forest, Va.

Thanks for looking!

**All photos copyright Luke Sharrett and The New York Times**

To West Point...

2010-05-24T19:31:00.003-04:00

On Saturday I had the privilege of accompanying the President of the United States to the commencement ceremony at the United States Military Academy at West Point.

Since coming to Washington in August, I have been inspired and influenced by the many talented photojournalists who call D.C. home. Specifically, one of my mentors, Stephen Crowley, has challenged me to think about how photographs relate to one another.

I hope each of these diptychs tell a story. How the commander in chief compares to those before him. How he reacts to hundreds of new young lives in his hands. What has changed? What stays the same?

Presidents embark upon their journey.

Airman and Marine stand by their birds. Air Force One, and Nighthawk 4.

Signs of respect for the Star Spangled Banner.

Graduating sixth in her class, Cadet Marisa Yarmie cracks a smile. This year the two top cadets of the class are women.

Body language during an invocation.

Cadets who have braved their four years in "The Corp," and those who have yet to prove themselves.

Tossing their cover, the class of 2010 is dismissed.

Thanks for looking!

**All photos copyright Luke Sharrett and the New York Times**

April

2010-05-02T20:27:00.007-04:00

Here are some photos from the month of April. I spent a lot of time at the White House this month, as well as a week in West Virginia covering the Montcoal Mine disaster. (You can see my photos from West Virginia in the previous post.)

President Barack Obama disembarks Air Fiorce One at Andrews Air Force Base following a trip to Charlotte, N.C. to speak on the economy, Friday, April 2, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama delivers remarks at the opening session of Space Conference at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Operations and Checkout Building at Kennedy Space Center in Florida, Thursday, April 15, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama delivers remarks at the Oakley Lindsay Center in Quincy, Ill.. during a two-day "White House to main street" tour spanning Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri, Wednesday, April 28, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama is seen inside a greenhouse while touring the Mogoorganic Farm in Mount Pleasant, Iowa with farmer Morgan Hoenig and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack during a two-day "White House to main street" tour spanning Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri, Tuesday, April 27, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

One of the 1,338 frames I shot of Obama greeting world leaders at the Nuclear Security Summit. View a timelapse video on the NYT Lens Blog: Obama Goes Dancing with the Heads of State

President Barack Obama delivers remarks on health insurance reform at the Portland Expo Center, Thursday, April 1, 2010 in Portland, Maine. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama waves before delivering remarks on health insurance reform at the Portland Expo Center, Thursday, April 1, 2010 in Portland, Maine. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama delivers remarks at a Democratic National Committee (DNC) fundraiser at the Arsht Center for the Performing Arts in Miami, Fl., Thursday, April 15, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

An onlooker waits with his camera for President Barack Obama to appear and deliver remarks on the economy at a town hall meeting at Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa, Iowa during a two-day "White House to main street" tour spanning Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri, Tuesday, April 27, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Audience members react as President Barack Obama delivers remarks on the economy at a town hall meeting at Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa, Iowa during a two-day "White House to main street" tour spanning Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri, Tuesday, April 27, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Press Photographers board Air Force One before traveling to Charlotte, N.C. with President Barack Obama April 2, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Senator Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) strolled past the Senate chamber before attending the Tuesday Democratic Lunch on Capitol Hill, Tuesday, April 20, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Senator Paul G. Kirk Jr. (D-Mass.) is seen in his office in the Russell Senate Office Building in early 2010. Kirk filled the vacant Senate seat of the late Senator Edward Kennedy after his death in August of 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A discarded flagpole lays in a vacant stairwell on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, April 21, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A family member of fallen miner Deward Allan Scott embraces West Virginia Govenror Joe Manchin during a memorial service for the 29 miners who perished in an explosion at the Massey Energy Upper Big Branch Coal Mine, at the Raleigh County Beckley Convention Center in Beckley, W.Va., Sunday, April 25, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A soldier from the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment's "Old Guard" of Fort Myer shares a light moment with other soldiers from the "black team" caisson before the day's missions in Arlington Cemetery, Friday, April 23, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

USMC Cpl. Felder of Nighthawk 4 at a landing zone in Eastern Massachusetts.

United States Marine Corp Sergeant Frank J. World of Buffalo, N.Y. is carried in a flag draped transfer case from the back of an Air Force C-17 cargo plane to the waiting mortuary truck during a dignified transfer at Dover Air Force Base, 4:38am Easter Sunday, April 4, 2010 in Dover, Del. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

"Remember, White Balance off the mortuary truck."

Many participants in the "Restore the Constitution" open carry firearm rally carried both long arms (rifles) and short arms (handguns) in Alexandria, Va., Monday, April 19, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Ray Nebelski of Altoona, Penn., with a carbine over his soldier, traveled to Washington to participate in the "Restore the Constitution" open carry firearm rally in Alexandria, Va., Monday, April 19, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A man who wished to remain unidentified smoked a cigar while carrying an M-1 Carbine rifle over his shoulder alongside participants at the restore the Constitution open carry firearm rally in in Alexandria, Va., Monday, April 19, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Alfred Carter Jr., a mechanic at Melvin's auto sales, has lived along Route 29 in Amherst, Va. for all his life. "Maybe someday we'll go out West to Los Angeles," Carter said.

Ray Curt, aka "Fiddla" performs at the entrance to the Capitol South Metrorail station on the Orange Line.

Thanks for looking!

**All photos copyright Luke Sharrett and The New York Times**

Montcoal Mine Disaster

2010-04-18T23:05:00.007-04:00

Before photos, a few words:

When news of an explosion in a coal mine in Montcoal, West Virginia broke last Monday afternoon, I sent an email to my editor in New York asking if I could go cover the story. Before I knew it I was cruising down Route 29 toward the coal fields of West Virginia.

I arrived in Montcoal, W. Va. early the next morning to begin an exhausting three days of shooting. Access to the mine itself was incredibly restrictive compared to past mine disasters, like the Sago explosion in 2006, so a lot of the media's focus was on the reaction of the local community. Pretty much every major news organization in the U.S. found its way to Montcoal, so as usual it was great shooting along friends and colleagues like Mark Wilson of Getty Images, Saul Loeb of AFP, and Haraz Ghanbari of the Associated Press. Also great to meet new friends like Andrew Spear, and Garrett Hubbard.

I learned a lot about myself, my shooting, and more importantly about the mining community in West Virginia. Mining is a way of life and a generational tradition for many West Virginians. Here are my images (all transmitted from the Dairy Queen in Whitesville)

Jo Ann Kuhn held a candle during a vigil in Whitesville, W. Va.for the coal miners who perished in the blast at the Upper Big Branch Coal mine in Montcoal, W. Va. Wednesday, April 7, 2010. "We are all miners," Kuhn said.(Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Participants remained on the Whitesville Junior High School baseball diamond after a candle light vigil for the coal miners who perished in the blast at the Upper Big Branch Coal mine in Montcoal, W. Va., Wednesday, April 7, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Members of the mining community from Whitesville and other mining towns file past the Valley Funeral Home in downtown Whitesville, W.Va. after a candle light vigil for the coal miners who perished in the blast at the Upper Big Branch Coal mine in Montcoal, W. Va., Wednesday, April 7, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Below are a couple diptychs from a few multimedia profiles on the local mining community.
You can view the project here: The Pull of a Dangerous Job

Coal Miner's wife Stephanie Pennington.

Tobie Hilderbrand, pastor of Marsh Fork Worship Center, center, is seen outside his church with Billy Pettry, at left, and 5-year-old Caden Gray, with a sign of support just down the road from the coal mine in which dozens of miners were killed in a blast, Tuesday, April 6, 2010 in Montcoal, West Virginia. Hilderbrand's wife's uncle was killed in the blast. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Ed Runyon, a long time resident of Eunice, W. Va. and 40-year veteran of West Virginia coal mines flew his American flag at half staff in honor of the dozens of coal miners who were killed in a blast at a coal mine just down the road from his house, Tuesday, April 6, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Another portrait of Mr. Runyon.

Local businesses showed their support by posting messages of prayer and support for the affected miners and their families.

Kay Margocee of Charleston, West Va. prayed alone at the Catholic Church in Whitesville, West Va. following a prayer vigil for the victims of the coal blast at a mine in Montcoal, W. Va., Tuesday, April 6, 2010. Margocee's son is a coal miner, though he was not impacted by Monday's accident. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A makeshift memorial for the miners lost in the Upper Big Branch Mine blast.

An abandoned school in the heart of the West Virginia coal fields.

Thanks for looking!

**All photos copyright Luke Sharrett and The New York Times**

March

2010-04-09T15:20:00.008-04:00

Here are some photos from the month of March.

President Barack Obama delivers remarks on energy security to airmen with a new bio-fuel F-18 "Green Hornet" at Joint Base Andrews Naval Air Facility Washington, March 31, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama paused while delivering remarks in favor of health insurance reform to a crowd of supporters and students at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, Va. Friday, March 19, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Marine One passes by the Washington Monument after departing the White House with President Barack Obama, March 8, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama and French President Nicolas Sarkozy before a joint press availability in the East Room of the White House, March 30, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama and French President Nicolas Sarkozy during a joint press availability in the East Room of the White House, March 30, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama signs the Health Insurance Reform Bill during a ceremony in the East Room of the White House, Tuesday, March 23, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama share a moment together before delivering opening remarks at the at International Women’s Day reception in the East Room of the White House, March 8, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama tours Chatham Steel during the White House to Mainstreet Tour in Savannah, Ga., Tuesday, March 2, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama delivers remarks after touring Savannah Technical College during the White House to Mainstreet Tour in Savannah, Ga., Tuesday, March 2, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Seen from the House Rules Committee Office, President Barack Obama, middle, descends the House steps with Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), Ireland's Prime Minister Brian Cowen and Foreign Minister Micheal Martin, and Representative Richard Neal, (D-Mass.) following a St. Patrick's Day luncheon on Capitol Hill, Tuesday, March 17, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Senior Advisor to the President David Axelrod is seen on his Blackberry in his office in the West Wing of the White House as President Barack Obama's likeness is seen on MSNBC on Mr. Axelrod's television, March 3, 2010 in Washington, D.C. The President's (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The Ringling Brothers Circus elephants stop briefly while parading down Third Street near Capitol Hill, Tuesday, March 16, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The family of United States Marine Corporal Jacob H. Turbett (at left) follows behind his flag draped casket during his burial service at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va., Tuesday, March 9, 2010. Cpl. Turbett was killed in action on February 13 while serving in Operation Enduring Freedom on Helmand Province, Afghanistan. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Members of the United States Marine Corp Honor Guard fire a volley during the burial service of Marine Corporal Jacob H. Turbett at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va., Tuesday, March 9, 2010. Cpl. Turbett was killed in action on February 13 while serving in Operation Enduring Freedom on Helmand Province, Afghanistan. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Peter Orszag, Director of the White House Office of Management and Budget, holding a copy of the 2010 budget speaks to his staff during a hearing on the 2010 budget before the House Appropriations Committee on Capitol Hill, Tuesday, March 16, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee Senator Chris Dodd (D-Conn.) unveils financial reform legislation during a press conference on Capitol Hill, Monday, March 10, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) arrives on Capitol Hill, Monday morning, March 15, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Anti-healthcare reform protestors left their signs at the public entrance to the Rayburn House Office Building after demonstrating on Capitol Hill, Tuesday, March 16, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Gallito de Oro of El Salvador strums an acoustic guitar during the March for America immigration reform rally on the National Mall, Sunday, March 21, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Demonstrators sought respite from the midday sun under the shadow cast by a giant American flag during the March for America immigration reform rally on the National Mall, Sunday, March 21, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama's motorcade returns from a trip to Arlington, Va. to discuss clean energy at a small business. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The operator of a stopped Orange Line Metro Rail train watched as President Barack Obama's motorcade traveled down Interstate 66 after he delivered remarks in favor of health insurance reform to a crowd of supporters and students at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, Va. Friday, March 19, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Passengers at the Vienna/Fairfax Orange Line Metro Rail Station watch President Barack Obama's motorcade travel down Interstate 66 after he delivered remarks in favor of health insurance reform to a crowd of supporters and students at the George Mason University Patriot Center in Fairfax, Va. Friday, March 19, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A street performer plays in the late afternoon sun outside the Clarendon Metro in Arlington, Va.

CSX Freight at L'Enfant Plaza.

An Amtrak Regional train passes by the old Covesville Presbyterian Church in Abemarle County Thursday, March 25, 2010, South of Charlottesville, Va.. Some graves in the cemetery pre-date even the construction of the railroad in the mid-nineteenth century. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

**all photographs copyright Luke Sharrett and The New York Times**

New York Times: February

2010-03-02T02:05:00.001-05:00

Its been six months since I came to Washington, and what an incredible six months it has been.

Holocaust survivor and Nobel Prize Winner Elie Wiesel was embraced by President Barack Obama before being awarded the National Humanities Medal during an awards ceremony in the East Room of the White House in Washington, D.C., Wednesday, February 25, 2010.(Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama fields questions at Nashua High School North in Nashua, N.H. during an economic town hall, Tuesday, February 2, 2010. The President proposed using $30 billion from the Troubled Assets Relief Program (TARP) to help small businesses. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama's limousine leaves the White House South Lawn on a snowy day.

President Barack Obama greeted Senators as he departed the Newseum after delivering remarks at the Senate Democratic Policy Committee Issues Conference in Washington, D.C., Wednesday, February 3, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama paused while delivering remarks at an Organizing for America grassroots fundraiser at the Capital Hilton, Thursday night, February 4, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Press Secretary Robert Gibbs' hand is seen at the afternoon daily press briefing at the White House, Tuesday, February 9. Gibbs scrawled on his hand a shopping list of eggs, milk, bread, as well as the old Obama campaign slogans "Hope" and "Change" to mock Sarah Palin, who used notes on her hand at the Tea Party convention last week in Nashville, Tenn. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama delivers remarks to donors at a $30,000 per-plate Democratic National Committee fundraising dinner at the National Museum of Women, Thursday night, February 4, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

First Lady Michelle Obama wiped her lipstick off President Barack Obama's face after she kissed him at the National Prayer Breakfast at the Washington Hilton Hotel in Washington, D.C., Thursday, February 4, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama addresses a meeting of the Business Roundtable at the St. Regis Hotel in Washington, D.C., Wednesday, February 24, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama delivers remarks at a Democratic National Committee fundraiser at the Capitol Hilton, Thursday night, February 4, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) and Illinois Senator Richard Durbin (D-Ill.) look on as President Barack Obama fielded questions at the Senate Democratic Policy Committee Issues Conference at the Newseum in Washington, D.C., Wednesday, February 3, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama is seen in the White House Briefing Room.

President Barack Obama fields questions at Nashua High School North in Nashua, N.H. during an economic town hall, Tuesday, February 2, 2010. The President proposed using $30 billion from the Troubled Assets Relief Program (TARP) to help small businesses. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama walks confidently toward Marine One on the South Lawn of the White House (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Air Force One is seen on the Tarmac at Nashua Municipal Airport.(Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The Presidential motorcade, seen from inside the press van, travels on the inner loop of the Washington Beltway through heavy snow after departing CIA headquarters in Langley, Va. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama lands at Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Md.

A law enforcement officer stands guard at Fort McHenry in Baltimore after President Barack Obama departed Maryland on Marine One.

The Baltimore-Washington Parkway is seen from the air.

Marine support helicopters are seen over Southern Maryland after accompanying President Barack Obama to Baltimore.

President Barack Obama is directed to his chair by House Minority Leader John Boehner (R-Ohio) alongside Minority Whip Eric Cantor, and Representative Mike Pence (R-Ind.) before delivering remarks to House Republicans at the GOP House Issues Conference at the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel in Baltimore, Md., Friday, January 29, 2010 (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The United States Marine Corp Chemical Biological Incident Response Force arrived at the United States Capitol before President Barack Obama delivered the 2010 State of the Union Address on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, January 27, 2010 (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The United States Capitol and the moon are seen at sunset before President Barack Obama delivered the 2010 State of the Union Address on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, January 27, 2010 (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Republican House Members laughed during segments of President Barack Obama's 2010 State of the Union Address on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, January 27, 2010 (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

United States Attorney General Eric Holder is seen at the kitchen table in his home in Washington, D.C. where he often brings his work home at the end of the day. Thursday, February 11, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Secretary of Defense Robert Gates and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Admiral Mike Mullen held a press conference to discuss defense spending and the 2011 fiscal budget at the Pentagon in Arlington, Va., Monday, February 1, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is seen outside the West Wing of the White House after meeting with President Barack Obama in the Oval Office following a bipartisan gathering of the nation's governors, Monday, February 22, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The Blind Boys of Alabama took the stage and sang during a workshop with student musicians about music from the Civil Rights era in American history at the White House, Tuesday, February 9, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Protestors demonstrate against the National Prayer Breakfast outside a house at 133 C Street SE on Capitol Hill Washington, D.C., Wednesday, February 3, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A couple strolled through the snow on C Street SW in downtown Washington, D.C., Friday, February 5, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Kathy Fuller, a resident in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Washington, D.C., cleared snow from her sidewalk in the midst of a blizzard that dumped more than a foot of snow on the Washington, D.C. metro area, Wednesday, February 10, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Washington residents ventured out on the National Mall to jog and take photographs after a blizzard dumped more than a foot of snow across the east coast, Saturday, February 6, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A worker cleared snow from the sidewalk on Connecticut Avenue near Farragut Square as another major snow storm hit the Washington, D.C. metro area, Wednesday, February 10, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The United States Capitol is seen at sunset, Monday, January 25, 2010 (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The Empire State Building is seen at sunset in New York City, N.Y., Thursday, February 18, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

An Amtrak electric AEM-7 locomotive is seen at Union Station in Washington, D.C., Thursday, February 18, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Thanks for looking!
**All photos copyright Luke Sharrett & The New York Times**

New York Times: January

2010-01-31T21:36:00.001-05:00

First blog post of 2010! Below are some of my favorite shots from the beginning of the year, as well as a project I worked on to coincide with the 1-year anniversary of President Barack Obama's Inauguration. You can see the whole thing on the NYTimes Lens Blog: Showcase: Same Time, Last Year

Last year (Left) Union Station was so crowded on the day before the Inauguration that it was under the eye of the National Guard. This year (Right) not so much.

Last year, the mall was lined with 5,000 portable toilets.

Last year there were about 130 tons of refuse on the streets after the celebration.

Last year, the Capitol was readied to serve as the backdrop for the inaugural ceremony the next day.

Last year, full-scale cardboard cut-outs of President Obama could be seen all over the streets.

President Barack Obama walks the Rose Garden Colonnade at the White House after returning with First Lady Michelle Obama from the funeral of Vice President Joseph R. Biden's mother, Jean Biden, Tuesday, January 12, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama delivers remarks in the Diplomatic Room of the White House with Vice President Joseph R. Biden on the catastrophic earthquake in the Caribbean nation of Haiti, Wednesday, January 13, 2010. The President expressed sympathy for the victims of the 7.0-magnitude earthquake and announced American support and relief to Haiti. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Sasha Obama runs ahead of her parents, President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, to catch up with her sister Malia as they return from their Christmas vacation in Hawaii to the South Lawn of the White House via Marine One, Monday, January 4, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama held a press conference with former Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush regarding disaster relief and fundraising for Haiti in the White House Rose Garden Saturday, January 16, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Richard Flegler, a 20 year member of Vermont Avenue Baptist Church, raises his hands in worship during a gospel hymn as President Barack Obama looks on before delivering remarks on Martin Luther King Jr. during morning services, Sunday, January 17, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama's motorcade zooms down New York Avenue on Martin Luther King Day in Washington, D.C.

Neighborhood men are seen outside a convenience store as President Barack Obama's motorcade passes by on Martin Luther King Day.

Secret Service agents keep watch atop a building in Northeast Washington, D.C.

President Barack Obama shakes hands with a handicapped individual while serving lunch to the homeless and disadvantaged at So Others Might Eat, a soup kitchen in Northwest Washington, D.C. on Martin Luther King Day, Monday, January 18, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama's limousine idles outside as he and his family serve lunch to the homeless and the disadvantaged at So Others Might Eat, a soup kitchen in Northwest Washington, D.C. on Martin Luther King Day, Monday, January 18, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A Secret Service Counter-Assault Team (CAT) is seen in the basement of the Kennedy Center as President Barack Obama and his family attended the Let Freedom Ring concert upstairs. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The Washington Monument is seen as President Barack Obama's motorcade makes its way back to the White House from the Kenneduy Center.

President Barack Obama delivers remarks on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the humanitarian work of former NBA star Dikembe Mutombo at the Let Freedom Ring concert at the Kennedy Center, Monday, January 18, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama departs Andrews Air Force Base to campaign for Democratic Senatorial candidate Martha Coakley in Massachusetts. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke leaves the Capitol after meeting with Senator Richard Durbin on Capitol Hill, Monday, January 24, 2010 (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner testifies before the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform regarding the collapse and bailout of Insurance company AIG on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, January 27, 2010 (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Republican Senators including John Cornyn (R-Tex.) at middle, are seen at a press conference following the Republican Policy Luncheon on Capitol Hill, Tuesday, January 26, 2010 (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The official portraits of President Barack Obama and Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Nepolitano hang on the wall at the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Systems Integration Facility at Ronald Reagan National Airport, Thursday, December 30, 2009.(Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Officials displayed new imaging technologies for airport security screening at the TSA Systems Integration Facility at Ronald Reagan National Airport, Thursday, December 30, 2009.(Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

I was very blessed to get a great assignment down at Fort Eustis in the Hampton Roads Area of Virginia. Here's the full slideshow: Simulating Danger

Major Michael Dolge, a combat veteran of both Iraq and Afghanistan, acts as the vehicle commander of an up-armored Humvee during the Improvised Explosive Device Battle Drill (IEDBD) simulator at Fort Eustis in Newport News, Va. Thursday, January 7, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The Improvised Explosive Device Battle Drill (IEDBD) simulator is seen after being hit by a simulated IED explosion during an exercise at Fort Eustis in Newport News, Va. Thursday, January 7, 2010. Trainees inside the up-armored Humvee who fail to identify insurgent threats and IED's are treated to a simulated explosion of up to 4G's of force and 60 degrees of movement. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Human Terrain Systems team member Master Sergeant Terry Constantine is seen wearing special 3D glasses inside a 3D environment simulator at the Joint Training Counter-IED Operations Integration Center (JTCOIC) near Fort Monroe, Va. Thursday, January 7, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

T-shirts were for sale to Anti-Abortion and Pro-Life protestors who demonstrated against Abortion and Roe v. Wade during the 2010 March for Life by marching from the National Mall to the Supreme Court of the United States, Friday, January 22, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A handful of Pro-Abortion and Pro-Choice protestors from the National Organization for Women (NOW) demonstrated against Anti-Abortion and Pro-Life demonstrators during the 2010 March for Life in front of the Supreme Court of the United States, Friday, January 22, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

U.S. Army Ranger Major Pat Work is pictured outside the officers club on Fort Myer, Thursday, December 31, 2009 near Arlington, Va. Major Work served three tours in Afghanistan from 2002-2005 and lead troops into battle during "Operation Redwing." (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The vandalized remains of promotional photos once picturing suspended Washington Wizards Guard Gilbert Arenas are seen on a Verizon Center window in Washington, D.C., Friday, January 8, 2010. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Washington Wizards guard Nick Young jumps for a rebound during the Wizards' game against the Sacramento Kings at home in the Verizon Center, Saturday, January 16, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Pierre Garcon rushes during the American Football Conference (AFC) Championship game at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Ind., Sunday, January 24, 2010. The Colts beat the Jets 30-17. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Laverne Crumpler, sporting "2010" glasses for New Years Eve, gets a boot shine at Amtrak's Union Station in Washington, D.C. after riding Amtrak from New York City, Thursday, December 31, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The CSX trash train passes through downtown Washington, DC.

Thanks for looking!!!

**All photos copyright Luke Sharrett & The New York Times**

New York Times: Month 4

2009-12-29T14:37:00.001-05:00

Here are some photos from December, and a few leftovers from November. Thanks for looking, and Happy New Year!

President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama hosted Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his wife Gursharan Kaur at a State Dinner at the White House, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama pose with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his wife Gursharan Kaur during a State Dinner at the White House (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh spoke before delivering a toast to President Barack Obama during the first State Dinner of his presidency at the White House, Tuesday, November 24, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama pardons "Courage," the 45-pound White House Thanksgiving Turkey from North Carolina with his daughters Malia and Sasha under the North Portico of the White House alongside National turkey Federation Walter Pelletier, Wednesday, November 25, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A United States Marine stands guard outside the West Wing of the White House after the 2009 White House Christmas decorations were hung, Wednesday, December 2, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama's motorcade returns to the White House after traveling to a local food bank in Northwest Washington, D.C. on the day before Thanksgiving. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The soot-stained brick interior of the Blue Ridge Tunnel is seen after a single 30s exposure on the day after Christmas, 2009. To mourn the 65th anniversary of this majestic tunnel's abandonment, we trudged through two-foot snow drifts to pay our respects to one of Claudius Crozet's architectural masterpieces. Completed in 1858, the 4,273 foot long tunnel was abandoned in 1944 and at the time of its completion was the longest railroad tunnel in the world.

President Barack Obama tours Allentown Metal Works in Allentown, Pa. before meeting with small business owners and speaking on the economy, Friday, December 4, 2009 (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama shakes hands with shift workers at the Purina Nestle Alpo Dog Food Factory in Allentown, Pa., Friday, December 4, 2009 (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama takes the stage at Lehigh Carbon Community College in Allentown, Pa. to deliver remarks on the economy, Friday, December 4, 2009 (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama fields questions at the White House Forum on Jobs and Economic Growth, Thursday, December 3, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The Washington Monument is seen behind a Christmas tree in the Red Room of the White House, Wednesday, December 2, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama poses for a photo with third, fourth, and fifth grade elementary school students after speaking about presents and the true meaning of Christmas at the Boys and Girls Club in the Richard England Clubhouse and Community Center in Northeast Washington, D.C., Monday, December 21, 2009. The President also shared Christmas cookies and read "The Polar Express" aloud to the children. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama walks with arms around his two daughters, Malia and Sasha, and First Lady Michelle Obama, toward Marine One on the South Lawn before departing The White House on Christmas Eve enroute to Hawaii for Christmas vacation, Thursday, December 24, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Supporters brought a cardboard cut-out of President Barack Obama along the presidential motorcade route in Allentown, Pa., Friday, December 4, 2009 (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Children peek through a police line to try and get a glimpse of President Barack Obama during his lunch with local business leaders at the Hamilton Family Diner in Allentown, Pa., Friday, December 4, 2009 (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Rabbi Levi Shemtov surveys the White House Elipse three days before the lighting of the National Menorah, Thursday, December 9, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A member of the 3rd Infantry Regiment's "Old Guard" stands at attention as President Barack Obama's motorcade passes by Arlington National Cemetery on Veterans Day, November 11, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Snow blankets headstones in Arlington National Cemtery during a heavy snow storm, Saturday, December 19, 2009 in Arlington, Va. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

D.C. residents strolled the National Mall during a heavy snow storm, though familiar landmarks like the Washington monument and U.S. Capitol were shrouded by the storm, Saturday, December 19, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times

Larry Carter, area manager of Goodwill of greater Washington blows snow from the steps of the National Gallery of Art on the National Mall the day after a heavy snow storm moved through Washington, D.C., Saturday, December 19, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A homeless man wrapped in a moving blanket takes shelter in an Arlington Country Transit bus shelter on a snowy day in Arlington, Va.

An Amtrak employee worked on a platform at Union Station the day after a heavy snow storm moved through Washington, D.C., Saturday, December 19, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Lee "General" Shelton, a homeless man, tries to keep warm outside Union Station the day after a heavy snow storm moved through Washington, D.C., Saturday, December 19, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner testifies before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Capitol Hill, Tuesday, November 17, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi shared a moment with Rep. Michael McMahon (D-N.Y.) during a press conference with other House Democratic leaders after the passage of the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, Friday, December 11, 2009 on Capitol Hill. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi held a press conference with other House Democratic leaders after the passage of the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, Friday, December 11, 2009 on Capitol Hill. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Senator John McCain (R-Ariz.) smiles after wishing the media a "Merry Christmas" beside a replica of the House and Senate Democratic health care bills during a press conference with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-K.y) regarding pending health insurance reform legislation, Friday, December 18, 2009 on Capitol Hill. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) hugs Senator John Rockefeller (D-W.Va.) after the 60-39 passage of the cloture vote on health insurance reform legislation in the U.S. Capitol, Saturday, November 21, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Republican Senators (from right) John Thune (R-S.D.), Saxby Chambliss (R-Ga.), and Tom Coburn (R-Ok.) are seen during a press conference regarding Republican opposition to health insurance reform legislation after the U.S. Senate seal fell from the podium, Monday, December 7, 2009 on Capitol Hill. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Representative Mike Pence (R-Ind.) is seen during a press conference held by House Republican Leaders on the effect of healthcare legislation on senior citizens, Wednesday, October 28, 2009 on Capitol Hill. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Democratic Senators Jack Reed (R.I.) at right, and Richard Durbin (Ill.), are seen before holding a press conference on health insurance reform legislation on Capitol Hill, Friday, November 20, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Senator Chris Dodd (D-Conn.) is seen before a press conference with other Democratic leaders after the passage of the last sixty-vote procedural vote on the eve of the final health vote on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, December 23, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Senator Joseph Lieberman (I-Conn.) is seen in his office after announcing that he would vote against the current form of the Senate health insurance reform legislation, December 14, 2009 on Capitol Hill. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Washington Redskins tight end Fred Davis runs the ball during the Skins' home game against the undefeated New Orleans Saints at FedEx Field in Landover, Md. Sunday, December 6, 2009. The Redskins lost 30-33 in overtime. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Pastor Rives Grogan of Los Angeles, Calif. protests abortion language in the health insurance reform bill with a cardboard cutout of President Barack Obama in front of the U.S. Senate on the eve of the final health vote on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, December 23, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Anti-health insurance reform protestor Vicki Towles wore names of like-minded friends and acquaintances from around the country while demonstrating across the street from Capitol Hill, Tuesday, December 15, 2009 on Capitol Hill. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Herbert R., a Korean War U.S. Navy veteran, holds a flag alongside other anti-health insurance reform protestors who gathered across the street from Capitol Hill to demonstrate against the health care bill, Tuesday, December 15, 2009 on Capitol Hill. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

**All photos copyright Luke Sharrett and the New York Times**

New York Times: Month 3

2009-11-30T21:38:00.001-05:00

The halfway mark of my internship is upon me. Here are some photos:

President Barack Obama walks toward Marine One from the Oval Office prior to departing the South Lawn of the White House enroute to Wisconsin for an education event, Wednesday, November 4, 2009 (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama slips through a curtain onto the stage at the Susquehanna Bank Center before delivering remarks in support of the re-election of New Jersey Democratic Governor Jon Corzine during a rally in Camden, N.J. Sunday, November 1, 2009 (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A performer dressed as a tree entertained area school children and military families who came to "trick-or-treat" at the White House, Saturday, October 31, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A veteran peeks from behind an American flag while listening to President Barack Obama's remarks during a Veterans Day Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Wednesday, November 11, 2009 at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama comforts a man amongst the graves of casualties from recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan in Section 60 of Arlington National Cemetery following a Veterans Day Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Wednesday, November 11, 2009 at in Arlington, Va. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Air Force One and the motorcade of President Barack Obama are seen on the tarmac at Newark International Airport.

Marine One lands on the White House South Lawn.

Before:

and after breakfast on Air Force One.

President Barack Obama appears from backstage at the Prudential Center to a raucus crowd before delivering remarks in support of the re-election of New Jersey Democratic Governor Jon Corzine during a rally in Newark, N.J. Sunday, November 1, 2009 (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama was presented with a t-shirt while touring the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Research Laboratory in Cambridge, Mass. Friday, October 23, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama autographed a piece of lab equipment while touring the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Research Laboratory in Cambridge, Mass. Friday, October 23, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama is seen before delivering remarks promoting the passage of health care reform legislation in the White House Rose Garden after meeting with House Democrats on Capitol Hill, Saturday, November 7, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Workers placed a large pink ribbon on the North Portico of the White House in honor of breast cancer awareness, Monday, October 26, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama delivers remarks at a Congressional Gold Medal Ceremony in honor of former Senator Edward William Brooke in the Capitol Rotunda, Wednesday, October 28, 2009 on Capitol Hill. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A member of the Boston Police Department is seen backstage at a presidential event in downtown Boston, Mass.

First Lady Michelle Obama gives a standing ovation to classical violinist Joshua Bell after hearing him perform a rendition of "Yankee Doodle" during a classical music workshop in the East Room of the White House, Wednesday, November 4, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Vice President Joe Biden delivers remarks on job growth under the stimulus plan with California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley at the White House, Friday, October 30, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Chairman of the House Financial Services Committee Representative Barney Frank (D-Mass.) is seen during a markup session in financial regulatory reform, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 on Capitol Hill. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Maj. Gen. James L. Terry presents a folded American flag to Grace Allen, 5, daughter of Army Staff Sgt. Nekl B. Allen, during the burial service of her father at Arlington National Cemetery, Thursday, October 8, 2009. Allen was killed in combat in Wardak Province, Afghanistan on September 12, 2009 (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Tea Party protestors demonstrated against the House health care bill, Thursday, November 5, 2009 on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Jim Casey is seen on the steps of the U.S. Capitol with a sign reading "No public option" as he waits for the House of Representatives to adjourn for the day, Friday, November 5, 2009. Casey drove with a friend from Canton, Ohio at 4a.m. to come voice his opinion on proposed healthcare legislation (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Codepink Protestors are seen demonstrating for a Public Option in the House health care bill in front of Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi's office (D-Calif.), Thursday, November 5, 2009 on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) addresses the media with Democratic House Leadership after a meeting with President Barack Obama at the Cannon House Office Building on Capitol Hill regarding Healthcare Reform Legislation, Saturday, November 7, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and Democratic Leadership hold a press conference after passing health insurance reform legislation on Capitol Hill, Saturday, November 7, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Denver Broncos vs. Washington Redskins

Roy Mitchell-Cardenas of Mute Math performs at the historic 6th and I Synagogue in Washington, D.C.

Currituck Light is seen at sunset in Corolla, N.C.

Vacationers fly kites at sunset on the Jockeys Ridge sand dune on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

A Southbound high-speed Amtrak Acela train passes through Bowie, Md. on a Sunday afternoon.

Thanks for looking.

**All photos copyright Luke Sharrett and The New York Times**

New York Times: Month 2

2009-10-25T19:51:00.001-04:00

This marks the end of my second month interning in the New York Times' Washington, DC bureau. I'm beginning to get comfortable with my surroundings and feel like I'm finally "warming up," whatever that means. My goal for the coming month is to look for the political subtleties in the situations I'm photographing. I hope you like the pictures!

President Barack Obama walks the White House Colonnade before making a statement in the White House Rose Garden (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Air Force 1st Lt. Katie McDowell, widow of Air Force Capt. Mark R. McDowell, was presented with the American flag that draped her husbands casket during his burial service at Arlington National Cemetery, Thursday, October 15, 2009 in Arlington, Va. McDowell was killed after the F-15 fighter jet he was piloting crashed near Ghazni Province, Afghanistan on July 17. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

World War II veteran John Newman is seen at the National World War II memorial for the first time after traveling from New York to Washington, D.C. on an Honor Flight, Saturday, September 26, 2009.(Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Gay rights demonstrators hold a banner reading "Equality across America" during the National Equality March, Sunday, October 12, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Washington Redskins wide receiver Santana Moss celebrates in the end zone after catching a long pass from Jason Campbell to score the Redskins' second touchdown during their home game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, October 4, 2009 at Fed Ex Field in Landover, Md. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama addresses the Black Congressional Caucus Phoenix Awards dinner, Saturday, September 26, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama walks the White House Colonnade after awarding the Presidential Unit Citation to 86 U.S. Army veterans from Troop A, First Squadron of the 11th Armored Combat Regiment for heroic actions in the Republic of Vietnam in a ceremony in the White House Rose Garden, Tuesday, October 20, 2009 in Washington, DC. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama delivers remarks before awarding the National Medal of Science and the 2008 National Medal of Technology and Innovation to recipients during a ceremony in the East room of the White House, Wednesday, October 7, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Senator Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) is seen during a meeting of a Senate Finance Committee healthcare reform markup session, Tuesday, September 29, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama visits Minneapolis, Minn. for a rally on health care insurance reform. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama waves to supporters in Minneapolis, Minn. during a rally on health care insurance reform. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama holds a plastic lightsaber toy during an event on the White House South Lawn in support of Chicago's 2016 Summer Olympics bid. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) and Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) field questions from reporters following a bipartisan Congressional meeting on the war in Afghanistan with President Obama at the White House, Tuesday, October 6, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Senator Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) fields questions from reporters as Senator John McCain (R-Ariz.) listens from behind following a bipartisan Congressional meeting on the war in Afghanistan with President Obama at the White House, Tuesday, October 6, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) is seen during an event in the U.S. Capitol addressing the healthcare needs of young adults and reiterating her support for a public option to be included in health insurance reform legislation, Tuesday, October 13, 2009 on Capitol Hill. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The Marine One helicopter that will carry President Barack Obama to Andrews Air Force Base arrives on the White House South Lawn, Wednesday, October 21, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Embarrassed and disappointed, President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama walk across the White House South Lawn after failing to secure Chicago's bid for the 2016 Summer Olympics before the IOC in Copenhagen, Denmark. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama delivers remarks in the White House Rose Garden after failing to secure the 2016 Summer Olympic games for his home town of Chicago, Ill. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama delivers remarks encouraging Americans to invest in clean energy and green technology solutions during an event in Kresge Auditorium at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, Mass. Friday, October 23, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

An enthusiastic crowd of well-wishers and supporters snap photos and wave as the President walks the White House South Lawn toward Marine One shortly before leaving for New York City, Tuesday, October 20, 2009 in Washington, DC. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama gestures towards the stars while delivering remarks to middle school students and volunteers from scientific organizations on the South Lawn of the White House during "Astronomy Night," Wednesday, October 7, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama waves goodbye as he boards Air Force One at Logan International Airport in Boston, Mass. en route to Stamford, Conn. where he will tour a small business and hold a fundraiser with Senator Chris Dodd (D-Conn.) Friday, October 23, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Washington Redskins tight end Chris Cooley tries to break a Tampa Bay tackle during the Redskins home game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, October 4, 2009 at Fed Ex Field in Landover, Md. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Demonstrators from a Socialist Worker organization chant during a pre-march gathering before the National Equality March, Sunday, October 12, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Jael Phelps of the Westboro Baptist Church fringe protest group is seen during the National Equality March, Sunday, October 12, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Gay rights demonstrators march down Pennsylvania Avenue past the "Newseum" and its large engraving of the United States Constitution during the National Equality March, Sunday, October 12, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Diana Quiroz, an immigrant from Honduras, traveled from Michigan to Washington to rally for comprehensive immigration reform, Tuesday, October 13, 2009 on Capitol Hill. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Anti-war activist Cindy Sheehan makes a face during her mugshot after being arrested by U.S. Park Police for chaining herself to the White House North perimeter during a protest in opposition to the Obama administration's continued military involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan on Pennslyvania Avenue, Monday, October 5, 2009 in Washington. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Representative Melvin Watt (D-N.C.) is seen during a mark up session of the House Financial Services Committee on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, October 21, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Press flight from Stamford, Conn. back to Air Force One at JFK International Airport via a USMC CH-46 Chinook.

I took a roadtrip a couple weeks ago with my cousin in search of some good surfing waves. There was a swell, so we found the waves, and visited some other cool places. Here are some images from the Rodanthe pier on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

Thanks for looking!

*All photos copyright Luke Sharrett and The New York Times*

New York Times: Month 1

2009-09-22T18:23:00.001-04:00

This post marks the end of my first month interning in the New York Times' Washington, DC bureau. These past four weeks have been an incredible adventure. I've never been so excited to make pictures, and I've never been more honored to shoot for an outlet as I am for The New York Times. Without the support and encouragement from my editors in nyc, and DC staffers Doug Mills and Stephen Crowley, I wouldn't have made it through my first few days. Its been really humbling to have two such excellent photojournalists take me under their wings and treat me like a staffer right off the bat. Thanks also to all the folks in the DC press corp for sharing their wealth of knowledge and welcoming "the new kid" into their circle. Here are some of my favorite images from month 1:

President Barack Obama delivers remarks on health insurance reform at the White House, Thursday, September 10, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A US Coast Guard patrol boat maneuvers in the Potomac River near the Pentagon after it was reported that Coast Guard boats fired on another vessel that breached a security perimeter in Washington Friday, September 11, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama returns a salute as he disembarks Marine One at Andrews Air Force Base, Saturday, September 12, 2009 on his way to Minneapolis, Minn. for an health insurance reform rally. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) holds a press conference outside the Senate chamber Tuesday, September 15, 2009 in Washington. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) President John Sweeney is seen in front of a labor union-themed mural at AFL-CIO headquarters Thursday, September 3, 2009. in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Supporters and well-wishers of the late Senator Edward M. Kennedy (D-Mass.) gathered to pay their respects as the senator's funeral progression stopped at the United States Capitol before continuing on toward Arlington National Cemetery, Saturday, August 29, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner prepares to testify before the Congressional Oversight Panel on Capitol Hill regarding the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) as "Code Pink" protestors stand behind him, Thursday, September 10, 2009 in Washington. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Washington Redskins quarterback Jason Campbell throws a pass during the second half of the Redskins home opener against the St. Louis Rams, Sunday, September 20, 2009 at Fed Ex Field in Landover, Md. The Skins beat the Rams 9-7. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

St. Louis Rams halfback Steven Jackson rushes against the Washington Redskins defense, Sunday, September 20, 2009
at Fed Ex Field in Landover, Md. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Supporters and well-wishers of President Barack Obama are seen in front of Air Force One at the Minneapolis International Airport, Saturday, September 12, 2009 in Minneapolis, Minn. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Supporters of health insurance reform await the arrival of President Obama backstage at the Target Center, Saturday, September 12, 2009 in Minneapolis, Minn. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama gestures onstage at the Target Center during an health insurance reform rally, Saturday, September 12, 2009 in Minneapolis, Minn. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama addresses supporters onstage at the Target Center during an health insurance reform rally, Saturday, September 12, 2009 in Minneapolis, Minn. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Sporting a shirt which reads "World's Biggest Obama Supporter," seven-foot eight Igor Vovkovinskiy of Rochester, Minn. listens to President Obama's remarks on health insurance reform during a rally at the Target Center, Saturday, September 12, 2009 in Minneapolis, Minn. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Mustafa Salih immigrated from Sudan to the United States in 1991 and has since had trouble obtaining US Citizenship. Salih is seen in Dar Al-Hijrah Islamic Center Friday, September 4, 2009. in Falls Church, Va. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Republican members of Congress react as President Barack Obama addresses a joint session of Congress regarding his vision for healthcare reform legislation Wednesday, September 9, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama walks by Marine One towards the Oval Office after returning from the memorial service for Walter Cronkite in New York City, Wednesday, September 9, 2009. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

President Barack Obama stands with Paul and Janet Monti, parents of Sgt. First Class Jared Monti of Raynham, Mass. after posthumously awarding their son the Medal of Honor for his actions in combat during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, Thursday, September 17, 2009 in Washington, D.C. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

A portrait of George Washington is seen behind President Barack Obama as he delivers remarks on the European missile defense shield in the Diplomatic room at the White House, Thursday, September 17, 2009 in Washington. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Members of a US Marine Color Guard approach Section 60 of Arlington National Cemetery where Sergeant William J. Cahir was laid to rest, Monday, August 31, 2009, in Washington, D.C. Sergeant Cahir was killed in action while serving in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

The flag-draped coffin of Sergeant William J. Cahir arrives at Section 60 of Arlington National Cemetery by caisson, Monday, August 31, 2009, in Washington, D.C. Sergeant Cahir was killed in action while serving in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. (Luke Sharrett/The New York Times)

Thanks for your prayers and encouraging words, and thanks looking!

**All images copyright The New York Times and Luke Sharrett.**

Seattle

2009-08-19T15:47:00.001-04:00

A few weeks ago I caught the morning train out of Lynchburg for points West. Three trains and 3.5 days later I stepped off the train in beautiful Seattle, Washington. I met up with my buddy Daniel Houghton and tagged along with him on his assignments for the Seattle Times for a week. Good times.

Local kids beat the heat at the first annual Arlington Fire Department water shower in Arlington, Wa.

The 2009 Seattle Sea Fair Parade:

11 year-old Noble Englstad stands with his father's horse "RV" before the 2009 Seattle Sea Fair Parade.

Snohomish Falls, Washington

Seattle sunset from the Bainbridge Ferry in the Puget Sound.

The soggy Minneapolis/St. Paul Amtrak station

Amtrak's Westbound Empire Builder snakes through the forests of Western Washington State.

Somewhere in North Dakota I think.

Looking South from Mount Ranier

Chicago, Illinois Union Station.

Back home in Lynchburg.

Morocco

2009-07-21T14:57:00.001-04:00

Two weeks ago I had the privilege of traveling to Morocco with my camera. Though I wasn't there specifically to shoot photos, I managed to find time to go out and make pictures most afternoons. This was my first time overseas, and I found it much more challenging to shoot than I expected. Its very hard to blend in and capture daily life in North Africa when you are the only 6' 3" white dude for miles around. I learned some conversational Arabic and was able to introduce myself, and ask my subjects if I could photograph them. I was surprised how much of a difference it made to speak in arabic when approaching subjects, and more often than not, I found Moroccans to be enthusiastic about having their photo taken. I hope these pictures are a little slice of what life is like in Morocco. Thanks for looking!

One of the famous Aguadors (water men) of Marrakech. These guys carry camel skin bladders of cold water on their back and give drinks to Morrocans from shiny brass cups.

Fes dancers of Marrakech:

Men take a brake between games of Moroccan Checkers outside the walls of the old Medina in Casablanca:

Figs, Dates, Apricots, and more in Djama el Fnar Square in Marrakech.

The melon man of Casablanca. I was blown away by the warmth of this man, and despite the language barrier, felt a strong connection with him. He insisted upon giving me one of his watermelons after I took his picture. The next day I printed off a few 5x7's from a Kodak machine and brought some pictures back for him and his fellow melon farmers. They were so excited to see the photos, that they kissed me on each cheek and gave me another watermelon! Easily my favorite part of the trip, hands down.

Outside the old Medina walls in Casablanca.

Al Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca:

Mid-morning laundry.

A street vendor gets an early start to the days work, taking advantage of the empty streets at sunrise, before they're filled with Taxis and Casablanca's infamous rush hour traffic.

Sunrise over France at 20,000 feet, seen from the window of an Air France Boeing 777.

The Storks of Marrakech, Morocco:

Outside a rooftop cafe in Marrakech:

More laundry.

Another highlight of my trip was taking the train through the desert from Casablanca to Marrakech. The Moroccan railroad (ONCF) has virtually no safety standards onboard their passenger trains, so I happily spent most of the trip hanging off the doorway railing, dodging catenary poles and watching the Moroccan desert pass by.

One of my fondest memories was sitting cross-legged in the vestibule, swaying back and forth with the movement of the train, hearing the trademark "clickety clack" of the rails, and feeling the desert wind whip through my hair at 80mph.

"From the hip"

A hot noonday at Voyageur Station in Casablanca:

If you're still reading this, thanks! What do you think I could improve upon if I ever make it back to Morocco?

California

2009-07-03T12:42:00.001-04:00

Here are some photos from San Diego, Ca. I flew out last weekend to visit some friends and be a part of the 2009 Switchfoot Bro-Am, a charity surf contest and concert benefiting homeless teens in San Diego.

   Del Mar Fair, San Diego

   Nuclear power plant, seen from 32,000 feet.
   Solana Beach at sunset, seen from the Amtrak Surfliner.
   Arnold, a homeless street musician, pauses between songs on a busy Saturday night in downtown San Diego.
   Santa Fe station, San Diego
   The Grapes.....are closed. Escondido, Ca.
   Skateboarding at Moonlight Beach, Encinitas, Ca.

   In-N-Out Burger!

Outer Banks

2009-07-01T01:15:00.000-04:00

Spent some time on the beautiful Outer Banks of North Carolina. So historic.

Currituck Light.

Bodie Island Light.

Accidentally shot my first engagement photos at the top of Corolla Light.
Hiking Oregon Inlet.

New York City.

2009-06-19T18:59:00.000-04:00

Second adventure/ train trip of the summer: new york city.

I caught the northbound 6:05am train out of Lynchburg and made it to the big apple by 3pm.

After meeting up with the NYDailyNews' finest, one Mike Ip, we had a wkupj scavenger hunt of sorts and found "pun"isher Brian Masck, NYTimes extraordinaire Jessica Ebelhar (hey that rhymes!), and Jon Woods (we are not worthy!). Republic. Dessert Truck. McSorley's. etc. -awesome. There are so many photos to be had in that city, its almost not fair.

The Xylofolks.
Obligatory Times Square photo... Folks hanging out in lawn chairs on the Broadway for kicks.

Philly.
Union Station. DC.

D-Day

2009-06-14T21:39:00.000-04:00

Images from June 6: The 65th Anniversary of the Normandy invasion at the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Va.

D-Day veterans:

Home for the summer.

2009-06-11T13:40:00.000-04:00

Home in Central Virginia for the summer. Good to see family and make new friends.

Hiking Sharp Top on the blue ridge parkway:

Dinner with the good folks of Natural Bridge Station, Va.

mewithoutYou at the canal club in Richmond, Va. Playing tunes off their new record.

Good to be on home turf for the summer:

A few frames from my new media final. Tent City, Ky.

Memorial Day

2009-05-27T18:32:00.000-04:00

Here are some photos from the 22nd Annual Rolling Thunder in Washington, DC last Sunday. I took the train up from Lynchburg last minute and had a good time shooting all the motorcycles and veterans who turned out to support the POW/MIA cause. While visiting Section 60 in Arlington Cemetery, I saw Reuters photojournalist Larry Downing. I wasn't sure it was him at first, but later saw his photos up on the wire. I wish I had said hi, but there were images to be made!

Widow Christine Wilson sits in front of the grave of her late husband, SSgt Jamie D. Wilson, in Section 60 of Arlington National Cemetery on the day before Memorial Day 2009. Wilson was killed in combat in Fallujah, Iraq on January 22, 2007.

Rolling Thunder National executive director Artie Muller and singer Nancy Sinatra cross Memorial Bridge into Washington, DC during Rolling Thunder XXII, Sunday May 24, 2009.

Marine SSgt. Tim Chambers stands at attention during Rolling Thunder XXII, Sunday May 24, 2009.

82 year old Air Force veteran Warren Foster (left) holds the American flag after the 2009 Memorial day celebration in Lynchburg, Va.

Homecoming

2009-05-14T00:04:00.000-04:00

Last Saturday I made a trip out to Fort Campbell, Ky. with fellow photojournalist and good friend Daniel Houghton. We shot the homecoming of a few hundred soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division Special Troops Battalion after their 15 month deployment to Afghanistan. Thanks for looking.