Beyond The Job
This project was a six-month labor of love that began from the tragic loss of Blake Reynolds and the life he left behind with his new wife. It grew into a deeper exploration of how being a first responder shapes not only the individual but the family behind them.
From the beginning, I envisioned a visual approach that placed “home life” and “work life” side by side, showing the contrast and connection between the two worlds. I also knew I didn’t want the story to rely on images alone. I partnered closely with a writer at the Ball State Daily News whom I deeply trust, and together we built the story through interviews, department visits, home visits, and shared reporting over several months. We also collaborated on the design of the cover and layout to ensure the visual storytelling and written narrative worked hand in hand.
This piece reflects what I hope to continue doing moving forward.