October Photo Blog: No Tricks, Just Treats!

This month was very sport heavy for me. One of the benefits of working at a local paper is that you often get feedback from the people you photograph. It is a great feeling to photograph a sporting even then return to the school and realize the school has hung the news clipping of your work.

It is nice to know that the work you produce makes an impact. Documenting a small town has its advantages. Everyone that you meet is important and I really mean that. Recently I was in town looking for a weather feature and saw a man standing outside of his home syphoning water from his basement. I photographed him and later spoke with him for caption information. While speaking to him I learned he was the mayor of the town. Every assignment is important! Every person I meet is another opportunity to build a relationship with the community.

Thanks for reading. IG: @chrisklee_jpeg

General Brown's head coach pumps up his players during halftime of a high school football game at General Brown High School on Friday, Oct. 6, 2017 in Dexter, New York. (Christian K. Lee/ Watertown Daily Times)

General Brown's Tre' Coney (42) pauses before a high school football game at General Brown High School on Friday, Oct. 6, 2017 in Dexter, New York.  (Christian K. Lee/ Watertown Daily Times)

Rule A. Y. Smith is rescued near the Black River following an on-foot pursuit from law enforcement on Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2017 in Watertown, New York. Authorities received a call saying a witness saw Smith allegedly masturbating in public at a local bus station. He jumped nearly 20 feet from the Mill Street Bridge in an attempt to evade officers. (Christian K. Lee/ Watertown Daily Times)

Rule A. Y. Smith receives medical attention after he was rescued from the Black River after jumping into it following an on foot pursuit from law enforcement on Wednesday, Oct. 4, 2017 in Watertown. (Christian K. Lee/ Watertown Daily Times)

Giovanna Lettiere, 10, center, smiles at Francesca Brior, 7, left, and Shereen Pimental, 19, during the Miss Adirondack Scholarship Pageant at Immaculate Heart Central on Saturday, Oct. 7, 2017 in Watertown. Pimental is the previous Miss Heart of New York winner.  (Christian K. Lee/ Watertown Daily Times)

Jayden Waygh, 17, pauses as she prepares for the Miss Adirondack Scholarship Pageant at Immaculate Heart Central on Saturday, Oct. 7, 2017 in Watertown, New York.(Christian K. Lee/ Watertown Daily Times)

Cedar Chambers, 19, practices her talent backstage during the Miss Adirondack Scholarship Pageant at Immaculate Heart Central on Saturday, Oct. 7, 2017 in Watertown, New York. Chamber sung an Opera selection and was later crowned Miss Adirondack. (Christian K. Lee/ Watertown Daily Times)

Francesca Prior, 7, glance at older contestants as they prepare to compete in the teen division of the Miss Adirondack Scholarship Pageant at Immaculate Heart Central on Saturday, Oct. 7, 2017 in Watertown, New York. (Christian K. Lee/ Watertown Daily Times)

2018 Miss Thousand Islands pageant winner Joelle Leek on the basketball court where she suffered a concussion playing basketball during her freshman year at Lafargeville Central School on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2017 in Lafargeville, New York. Concussion awareness has become the platform of her competition. (Christian K. Lee/ Watertown Daily Times)

An official fires his gun signaling the start of the boys varsity Frontier League cross country championship race at  on Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017 in Dexter, New York. (Christian K. Lee/ Watertown Daily Times)

Sunlight highlights a runner's bandana before the Frontier League cross country championship race at on Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017 in Dexter, New York. (Christian K. Lee/ Watertown Daily Times)

Carthage cheerleaders Madison Beyond, from left, Carley Hill and Chantall Hill fix each others hair before competing in the Spooktacular Cheer Fest at Copenhagen high school on Saturday, Oct.  21, 2017 in Copenhagen, New York. (Christian K. Lee/ Watertown Daily Times)

Carthage cheerleaders hold hands at the Spooktacular Cheer Fest at Copenhagen high school on Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017 in Copenhagen, New York. (Christian K. Lee/ Watertown Daily Times)

Senior Carthage cheerleader Samantha Paddock reacts after competing in the Spooktacular Cheer Fest at Copenhagen high school on Saturday, Oct. 21, 2017 in Copenhagen, New York. "This is one of the last times I will be able to compete with these girls," Paddock said. (Christian K. Lee/ Watertown Daily Times)

September 2017 Photo Blog

A soldier listens to instruction before a wreath laying ceremony at the Fort Drum Military Reserve on Thursday, Sept. 14 2017 in Fort Drum, New York. (Christian K. Lee/Watertown Daily Times)

So I have settled here in Upstate NY. (To be exact I'm 5hrs from NYC, 1hr from Syracuse and about 30mns to the Canadian border)

I have collected some of my favorite images from the last month and I just want to share what I have been shooting. In every town there are interesting images to be made and stories to be told and Watertown, NY is no different. In the last couple years I have moved a lot chasing photo opportunities and I have learned a few things. People are people no matter where you are. They are living beautiful lives everyday.

In my opinion this job is about caring enough about others to tell their stories, no matter there geographical location. I think its extremely difficult to do our job if you don't at first see the people we document as beautiful.

Children leap into the St Lawrence River during a Jazz Festival on Saturday, Sept.  23 2017 in Clayton. (Christian K. Lee/Watertown Daily Times)

Ruby Stevens, 57, inside her taxi on Friday, Sept.  22 2017 in Watertown. Fort Drum military base has created tougher contracts that make it difficult for small taxi companies to operate on base. (Christian K. Lee/Watertown Daily Times)

Gregory Aldrich, 27, from left, Aaron Bush, 28, Kevin Aldrich, 28, and John Bush, 85, relax in their front lawn as Gregory rewires his lawnmower on Monday, Sept.  18 2017 in Gouverneur. (Christian K. Lee/Watertown Daily Times)

Isaiah Matthews, 11, from left, and his brother Benjamin Matthews, 8, play basketball with their father Anthony Matthews, 53, outside of their on Tuesday, Sept.  19 2017 in Watertown. Anthony waits for his sons' to get home from school daily to spend time with them. (Christian K. Lee/Watertown Daily Times)

Karlie Fancher, left, is held by Stephen Gorri during the downtown block party at Public Square on Friday, Aug.  25 2017 in Watertown, New York. (Christian K. Lee/Watertown Daily Times)

Bob Witham, 69, carries a box of cans during a food collection drive at St. Anthony's Church on Friday, Sept.  15 2017 in Watertown. Withal is volunteering at the drive. (Christian K. Lee/Watertown Daily Times)

Gouverneur's Brandon Stevens (76) gets pumped up while putting his uniform on before a high school football game against Massena at Gouverneur High School on Saturday, Sept.  2 2017 in Gouverneur, New York. Gouverneur won 36 to 12. (Christian K. Lee/Watertown Daily Times)

Watertown players shake hands as their teammates prepare for a semi-pro football game at the Watertown Fairgrounds on Saturday, Sept.  9 2017 in Watertown, New York. (Christian K. Lee/Watertown Daily Times)

Watertown players walks onto the field before a semi-pro football game at the Watertown Fairgrounds on Saturday, Sept.  9 2017 in Watertown, New York. (Christian K. Lee/Watertown Daily Times)

Sunlight illuminates Red and Black semi-pro football players during their practice at the Alex T Duffy Fairgrounds on Tuesday, Sept. 12 2017 in Watertown, New York. (Christian K. Lee/Watertown Daily Times)

Mark Benjamin catches his breath after him and his teammates complete a drill during their football practice at the Alex T Duffy Fairgrounds on Tuesday, Sept.  12 2017 in Watertown, New York. The athletes are members of the Red and Black semi pro football team. (Christian K. Lee/Watertown Daily Times)

Tyler Sloley, from left, Mark Benjamin, Niko Jones, Gualberto Santiago and Ra'Kwan Allen complete drills during their football practice at the Alex T Duffy Fairgrounds at on Tuesday, Sept. 12 2017 in Watertown, New York. They're members of the Red and Black semi pro football team. (Christian K. Lee/Watertown Daily Times)

Revolution players pray before a semi-pro division championship game against Southern Tier Diesel at Carthage Central High School on Saturday, Sept.  16 2017 in Carthage. Revolution won 53 to 6. (Christian K. Lee/Watertown Daily Times)

Revolution's Jon Fisher (55) pauses before a semi-pro division championship game at Carthage Central High School on Saturday, Sept.  16 2017 in Carthage. Revolution won 53 to 6. (Christian K. Lee/Watertown Daily Times)

Revolution's Wayne Timpson (23) escapes a table during a semi-pro division championship game at Carthage Central High School on Saturday, Sept. 16 2017 in Carthage. Revolution won 53 to 6. (Christian K. Lee/Watertown Daily Times)

Revolution's Eric Johnson is drenched in water after his team won a semi-pro division championship game at Carthage Central High School on Saturday, Sept.  16 2017 in Carthage. Johnson is the defensive coordinator of the team. Revolution won 53 to 6. (Christian K. Lee/Watertown Daily Times)

Carthage's head coach Sam Milich points at Gaige Orton while delivering a pregame speech at Carthage High School on Friday, Sept.  22 2017 in Carthage.  (Christian K. Lee/Watertown Daily Times)

Jacob Mitchell, 12, exits the St. Lawrence River with his lollipop in hand after jumping into during a Jazz Festival on Saturday, Sept.  23 2017 in Clayton. (Christian K. Lee/Watertown Daily Times)

Documenting Life in Vegas 3 - Sport images, last few weeks!

Over the last few weeks I have shot many sporting events. These include basketball, rugby, and nascar. Here are some of the images that were my favorite over the last few weeks. I have about three to four more weeks left here in Vegas, Im excited to see what images I can produce next.

The city and the staff of the Las Vegas Review-Journal has been great to me and I am excited to see what's next in the upcoming chapters of my photographic life. I plan to work hard for the next few weeks. Lets see what else Vegas has to offer!

Lowry's Shelby Garrison (11) dives after a loose ball as Churchill County's Leta Otuafi (24) runs pass her during the second half of a Class 3A girls state final championship game at the Cox Pavillion on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2017, in Las Vegas. Churchill County won 54-38.  (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Churchill County players celebrate after defeating Lowry in a Class 3A girls state final championship game at the Cox Pavillion on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2017, in Las Vegas. Churchill County won 54-38.  (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Agassi Prep's players and coaches react during the second half of a Class 2A boys state final championship game at the Cox Pavillion on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2017, in Las Vegas. Agassi won 60-43. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Churchill County's head coach Anne Smith reacts after her team scores during the second half of a Class 3A girls state final championship game at the Cox Pavillion on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2017, in Las Vegas. Churchill County won 54-38. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Clark players react after losing to Bishop Gorman in a Class 4A boys state championship final game at the Cox Pavillion on Friday, Feb. 24, 2017, in Las Vegas. Bishop Gorman won 62-58. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Clark players react after losing to Bishop Gorman in a Class 4A boys state championship final game at the Cox Pavillion on Friday, Feb. 24, 2017, in Las Vegas. Bishop Gorman won 62-5. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Agassi's head coach Trevor Diggs, right, walks into the room during half time of a Class 2A boys state final championship game at the Cox Pavillion on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2017, in Las Vegas. Agassi won 60-43. agassi(Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Lowry's Tiana Herrera (5) body is thrust into the air after falling off the back of Churchill County's Leta Otuafi (24) after Otuafu pump fakes during the first half of a Class 3A girls state final championship game at the Cox Pavillion on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Cheyenne's Cedric Coleman (10) is comforted in a coaches arms after his team loss to Desert Pine in a Class 3A boys state final championship game at the Cox Pavillion on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2017, in Las Vegas. Desert Pine won 69-46. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Clark players reacts during the second half of a Class 4A boys state final game at the Cox Pavillion on Friday, Feb. 24, 2017, in Las Vegas. Bishop Gorman won 62-58.  (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Lowry's Alyssa Kuskie (3), center, struggles for a loose ball from Moapa Valley players during the first half of a Class 3A girls state semifinal game at the Cox Pavillion Center on Friday, Feb. 24, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Bishop Gorman's Chuck O'Bannon (5) speaks to a member of the press as his teammates makes jokes after winning a Class 4A boys state final championship game at the Cox Pavillion on Friday, Feb. 24, 2017, in Las Vegas. Bishop Gorman won 62-58.  (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Centennial players celebrate after winning their third straight Class 4A girls state final championship game at the Cox Pavillion on Friday, Feb. 24, 2017, in Las Vegas. Centennial won 97-52. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Needle players react as their head coach Manuel Calderon accepts a trophy after winning a Class 2A girls state final championship game at the Cox Pavillion on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2017, in Las Vegas. Needle won 64-54. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Joey Logano (12) burns out after winning  a NASCAR Xfinity Series auto race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway Saturday, March 11, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Drivers run laps during the NASCAR Xfinity Series auto race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway Saturday, March 11, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Joey Logano (12) leads Kyle Larson (42) as they run laps during a NASCAR Xfinity Series auto race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway Saturday, March 11, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Bolts from a racer's car remain as people test drive vehicles during Richard Petty Driving Experience at Las Vegas Motor Speedway Saturday, March 11, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

A man struggles to fit into a car during Richard Petty Driving Experience at Las Vegas Motor Speedway Saturday, March 11, 2017, in Las Vegas. The experience gives fans the oppurtunity to test drive the vehicles.  (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

USA and Fiji athletes collide during a USA Sevens rugby match at the Sam Boyd Stadium on Friday, March 3, 2017, in Las Vegas. USA won 14-7.   (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

USA's Ben Winkelman (2) is tackled by England's Tom Mitchell (6) during a USA Sevens rugby match at the Sam Boyd Stadium on Saturday, March 4, 2017, in Las Vegas. USA loss 24-17. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Rugby fans dressed in 101 Dalmatians themed outfits drink beer while watching a USA Sevens rugby match at the Sam Boyd Stadium on Friday, March 3, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Rugby fans during a USA Sevens rugby tournament at the Sam Boyd Stadium on Friday, March 3, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

USA's Danny Barrett (3) and England's James Rodwell is lifted to catch the ball during a USA Sevens rugby match at the Sam Boyd Stadium on Saturday, March 4, 2017, in Las Vegas. USA loss 24-17.   (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

An England rugby fan cheers for his team during a USA Sevens rugby match against USA at the Sam Boyd Stadium on Saturday, March 4, 2017, in Las Vegas. USA loss 24-17. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

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Documenting Life in Vegas 2 - More Photos, Less Words!

Thank you for taking a look. Ive been covering alot of assignments. 

Fire on I-15

I was leaving an assignment and merging onto the expressway and this vehicle became engulfed in flames. Luckily my camera was in the passenger seat. Some of the images were shot through my window shield. I later parked the car and finish shooting.

A vehicle engulfed in flames on I-15 south near exit 37 on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

A passenger flees from his vehicle while it is engulfed in flames on I-15 south near exit 37 on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Firefighters rush to put out a vehicle engulfed in flames on I-15 south near exit 37 on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Firefighters rush to put out a vehicle engulfed in flames on I-15 south near exit 37 on Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Gold Butte National Monument

So I spent a full day (5am to 11pm) documenting Gold Butte National Monument. I spent the whole day hiking through the area and to be honest this place is so gorgeous. Im a Midwest guy from Chicago so besides seeing beautiful landscapes and cornfields I don't get a chance to see sights like this. As you can imagine editing this down to only seven images from a fully day of images was painful. Take a look.

A Joshua Bush at Gold Butte National Monument on Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2017, in Gold Butte, Nevada. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Petroglyphs at Gold Butte National Monument on Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2017, in Gold Butte, Nevada. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Dir. of the Friends of Gold Butte, Jaina Moan, 37, from left, and Kathryn Mcquade, 60, at Gold Butte National Monument on Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2017, in Gold Butte, Nevada. Friends of Gold Butte fought for the monument's protection. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Guests take photos while visiting Gold Butte National Monument on Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2017, in Gold Butte, Nevada. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Visitors hike up a hill at Gold Butte National Monument on Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2017, in Gold Butte, Nevada.  (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Dir. of the Friends of Gold Butte, Jaina Moan, 37, and visitors hike up at Gold Butte National Monument on Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2017, in Gold Butte, Nevada.  (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Gold Butte National Monument on Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2017, in Gold Butte, Nevada. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Prep Sports

Some basketball, wrestling, emotions, losses and wins. I enjoy shooting sports especially high school sports because these kids are playing with their heart. They are not playing for a paycheck or scholarship just pure passion and bragging rights.

Coronado's Bryce Savoy (15) shouts at a Foothill player during the first half of a high school basketball game on Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2017, in Henderson. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Foothill's Mauricio Smith (4) hangs of the back of Coronado's Nick Davis (3) after Davis makes a quick stop during the second half of a high school basketball game on Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2017, in Henderson. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Centennial's Isaiah Banks (10) reacts after his team loss to Clark during the semifinals Sunset Region high school basketball game on Thursday, Feb. 16, 2017, in North Las Vegas. Clark won 50-47. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Centennial's Darian Scott (32) struggles to keep the ball as Clark's Antwon Jackson (23) Clark's Jalen Hill (21) hustle after the ball during the second half of a semifinals Sunset Region high school basketball game on Thursday, Feb. 16, 2017, in North Las Vegas. Clark won 50 - 47. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Fans react during the second half of a semifinals Sunset Region high school basketball game on Thursday, Feb. 16, 2017, in North Las Vegas. Clark won 50 - 47. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

A cheerleader laughs at Innovations International's  player after they lost to Agassi at a boys basketball game on Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Agassi players listen to their coach during halftime at a boys basketball game on Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Findlay Prep's P.J. Washington (1) clinches his fist after being fouled while a referee speaks with Findlay Prep's head coach Paul Washington Sr. during a high school basketball game at the South Point Arena on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2017, in Las Vegas. Findlay won 78-72. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Las Vegas's Daniel Law, bottom, lifts  Rancho's Joel Serrano during a 132 pounder match at the Sunrise Region wrestling meet on Friday, Feb. 3, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Coronado's Gregory Watnem peaks between Las Vegas's Aaron Najera legs while Najero attempts to pin him during a 138 pounder wrestling match at the Sunrise Region meet on Friday, Feb. 3, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Basic's Dane Dennett, blue singlet, attempts to pin Las Vegas's Trace Everett during a 106 pounder match at the Sunrise Region wrestling meet on Friday, Feb. 3, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Green Valley's Dylan Warr, green singlet, sprawls hard as Canyon Spring's Allen Frishmann shoots a double during a 182 pounder match at the Sunrise Region wrestling meet on Saturday, Feb. 4, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Green Valley's Justus Scott, green singlet, hand is raised as Las Vegas's Daniel Law runs off the mat after a 132 pounder match at the Sunrise Region wrestling meet on Saturday, Feb. 4, 2017, in Las Vegas. Scott won the match. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Stone Carving Class

Sculptor Sharon Gainsburg, 74, reaches for a tool that she uses to carve into stone at the Sharon Gainsburg Studio on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017, in Las Vegas. Gainsburg art pieces has been seen around the country and she teaches classes to Las Vegans at her studio. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Pieces of stone fly as a student hammers into a piece of stone at the Sharon Gainsburg Studio on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Anne Furno carves into stone at the Sharon Gainsburg Studio on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017, in Las Vegas. Furno is a student at the Sharon Gainsburg Studio.(Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Students carve into stone at the Sharon Gainsburg Studio on Thursday, Jan. 26, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Chapel Weddings

Vegas is famous for their Chapel weddings. I knew at one point I wanted to cover one, I was assigned to cover it on Valentines Day which is the best time to cover one in my opinion. The Chapel performed about 40 ceremonies that day. They ranged from Elvis themed to a Camelot themed ceremony.

Celine Zind, left, kiss Frederic Spenle of Colmar, France in front of a pink cadillac during their Elvis themed wedding ceremony at the Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel on Valentines Day 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

An Elvis impersonator drives Celine Zind, center, and her groom Frederic Spenle of Colmar, France into their Elvis themed wedding ceremony at the Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel on Valentines Day 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel on Valentines Day 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

An Elvis impersonator assists Celine Zind, center, and her groom Frederic Spenle of Colmar, France into a pink cadillac before the start of their Elvis themed wedding ceremony at the Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel on Valentines Day 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Celine Zind, left, and her groom Frederic Spenle of Colmar, France kisses during their Elvis themed wedding ceremony at the Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel on Valentines Day 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Andrew Kivari, 55, from left, Teri Robson, 50, and Dawn Aberson-Risley wait for their Camelot themed ceremony at the Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel on Valentine's Day 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Teri Robson, 50, holds her bible before her Camelot themed ceremony at the Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel on Valentine's Day 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Kalin Ivanov, left, signals for the bride to enter the room as Andrew Kivari, 55, waits for her during a Camelot themed ceremony at the Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel on Valentine's Day 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Teri Robson, 50, enters the room during a Camelot themed ceremony at the Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel on Valentine's Day 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Andrew Kivari, 55, from left, his bride Teri Robson, 50, and Kalin Ivanov take care of final paperwork after their Camelot themed ceremony at the Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel on Valentine's Day 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Kalin Ivanov escorts a bride and groom out of the Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel on Valentine's Day 2017, in Las Vegas. Ivanov played a character in a Camelot themed ceremony at the chapel. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Archery Competition

I was assigned to cover an archery competition. I spoke to the assigned reporter before the assignment and realized that most of her story was going to be about competitor Haley West. So I spent most of my time documenting her.

Haley West, 10, presses her bow against her face as she take aim at a target during The Vegas Shoot archery tournament at the South Pointe Friday, Feb. 10, 2017, in Las Vegas.  (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Haley West, 10, center, at The Vegas Shoot archery tournament at the South Pointe Friday, Feb. 10, 2017, in Las Vegas. West is competing in a tournament which is known as the largest indoor archery competition in the World. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Competitors walk towards their targets to remove their bow during The Vegas Shoot archery tournament at the South Pointe Friday, Feb. 10, 2017, in Las Vegas. The tournament is known as the largest indoor archery competition in the World. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Haley West, 10, speaks with other competitors during The Vegas Shoot archery tournament at the South Pointe Friday, Feb. 10, 2017, in Las Vegas.  (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Haley West, 10, removes her arches from a target after shooting at it during The Vegas Shoot archery tournament at the South Pointe Friday, Feb. 10, 2017, in Las Vegas.  (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Vet Burial Service

I was assigned to cover a Veteran's burial service. A few weeks ago I posted a Facebook post that summarizes my opinions about this assignment better than I could do now. 

Rick Toulon, 66, center, holds a flag during a ceremony to honor Irene Miller, a World War two era Navy veteran at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2017, in Boulder City. Miller died earlier this year and gained notoriety over a financial dispute with Veteran Affairs. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Marine veteran Mike Edwards clinches a hat that was given to him by Irene Miller at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2017, in Boulder City, Nevada. Edwards became good friends with Miller after he heard about the financial dispute she had with Veteran Affairs. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Chaplain Dave Jochman pauses while speaking at a ceremony honoring Irene Miller, a World War two era Navy veteran at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2017, in Boulder City, Nevada. Miller died earlier this year and gained notoriety over a financial dispute with Veteran Affairs. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

 A color guard followed by members of various biker clubs hold a box with the engraved name of rene Miller, a World War two era Navy veteran at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2017, in Boulder City, Nevada. Miller died earlier this year and gained notoriety over a financial dispute with Veteran Affairs. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg 

Thank you for looking. I'm constantly posting small snippets to my Instagram live video feed as I cover assignments. Take a look there.     Instagram @chrisklee_jpeg

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Photo Blog Update - Documenting Life in Vegas

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A group of teenagers play basketball at Sunset Park  on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

It's been a month since I've graduated and it feels amazing to be shooting full time. As of now I am stationed in Las Vegas shooting as a Photo Intern at the Las Vegas Review Journal. Initially I was cautious about the move because the city doesn't come across as being a prominent place for a news town, but I have realized that people are people regardless of where and after getting pass the glitz and glamor of a city like Vegas I have been able to dive in and spend time meeting people. In return I have been able to work on assignments that I am happy about.

I rarely share a collection of my favorite images. I typically enjoy sharing assignments and giving insight on I how tackled them. Thanks for looking. To stay up to date on my daily assignments follow me on Instagram and Twitter at @chrisklee_jpeg

SWITCHING UP THE ANGLES

Sometimes it can be easy to get in a mood where we are use to shooting at a certain aperture, the same angle or just using the same approach to photography. With this assignment I really attempted to switch up the angles Im use to shooting at. For the most part I was able to make a couple images that spoke to that while still accomplishing my assignment for the day. The assignment was to photograph people enjoying the park, for the park's anniversary. 

Leon Jones, 20, shoots the ball during a pickup basketball game at Sunset Park with his friends on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Josh Goddard, 41, pitches a baseball to his son Sam Sanchez, 10, at Sunset Park on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2017, in Las Vegas. Goddard is preparing his son for the park's baseball league. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Abler Hernandez, 17, laughs during a basketball game with his friends at Sunset Park on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

A group of teenagers relax after playing basketball at Sunset Park on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

A plane flies near Sunset Park as a rainbow forms on Saturday, Jan. 14, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

ARRIVING EARLY

I have spoke several times in my blog posts about the advantages of arriving early to assignments. I was able to get more images from an assignment that I was only allotted a small amount of time for because I showed up early. I was able to photograph the officer preparing her horse for training as well. The assignment was to photograph the Mounted Officer's Unit training for New Years Eve celebration's crowd control.

Maile Hanks, 29, a Las Vegas Police Department officer prepares her horse for training at the Mounted Unit training facility on Friday, Dec. 30, 2016, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

A badge is placed upon a mounted officer's horse before training at the Mounted Unit training facility on Friday, Dec. 30, 2016, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

A Las Vegas Policed Department officer lights a firecracker to test the horses reaction as Tim Ruiz, 36, left, and Maile Hanks, 29, sits mounted during training at the Mounted Unit training facility on Friday, Dec. 30, 2016, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Gai Phanalasy, 36, reacts as a Las Vegas Police Department mounted officer demonstrate a grab maneuver at the Mounted Unit training facility on Friday, Dec. 30, 2016, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

NEW YEARS EVE CELEBRATIONS

Las Vegas is rated as one of the top locations for New Years Eve Celebrations. The entire Las Vegas Strip is shut down to traffic so people can enjoy themselves. 

People gather on New Year's Eve 2017 at the the Strip on Saturday, Dec. 31, 2016, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Michelle Price, 35, reacts after liquor is spelled on her by Ak Veysel, 31, from left, and Fernando Hernandez, 26, on New Year's Eve 2017 at the the Strip on Saturday, Dec. 31, 2016, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Show girls count their money after charging  people to take photos with them on New Year's Eve 2017 at the the Strip on Saturday, Dec. 31, 2016, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Kevin Melendres, 21, smokes Cannabis at midnight on New Year's day at the the Strip on Sunday, Jan. 01, 2017, in Las Vegas. Recreational marijuana is legal in Nevada starting Sunday, Jan. 01, 2017. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

PREP AND COLLEGE SPORTS

With sports I am always trying to look at stuff in new ways. I try to produce image that give you a better insight into the sport. If that means figuring out how to get into the locker room or shooting it visually different, that is my goal.

Foothill players listens to their head coach after they won a game against Green Valley at Green Valley High School on Tuesday, Jan. 03, 2017, in Henderson.

Centennial’s Tylise Taylor (30) drives towards the hoop during a high school basketball game at the Las Vegas Holiday Classic on Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2016, in Las Vegas.

UNLV guard Jovan Mooring (30) drives towards the hoop pass Wyoming guard Jeremy Lieberman (11) during the first half of a NCAA college basketball game against Wyoming at the Thomas & Mack Center on Saturday, Dec. 31, 2016, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

UNLV guard Kris Clyburn (1) recovers a loose ball during the second half of a NCAA college basketball game against Wyoming at the Thomas & Mack Center on Saturday, Dec. 31, 2016, in Las Vegas. UNLV wins 81-75. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

VOICING WHEN YOU NEED MORE TIME

I ran into a sensitive situation where it really seemed like all I was expected to get was a five minute portrait but I knew I needed more time with the family in order to tell their story better. When I met the family I told them, hey I would really like to spend more time with your family and they granted me more access. Sometimes we really have to push to get more time to a better job for not only our publication but to tell the stories of people better.

Krissy Lough, 28, right,  prepares her son, Riley Schlei, for dialysis treatment in his bedroom on Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2017, in Las Vegas. Louhg and her husband are raising money for a kidney transplant for their son who has end-stage renal disease. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Jake Schlei, 25, right, plays with his son Riley Schlei in their home on Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2017, in Las Vegas. Jake and his wife are raising money for a kidney transplant for Ryan who has end-stage renal disease. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Riley Schlei looks at his father while playing in their home on Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Riley Schlei bites a table while his parents speak in their home on Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2017, in Las Vegas. His parents are raising money for a kidney transplant for him. He has end-stage renal disease. ( (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Krissy Lough, 28, prepares her son, Riley Schlei, for dialysis treatment in his bedroom on Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Krissy Lough, 28, right, holds her son, Riley Schlei, as he cries for his bottle in his bedroom on Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2017, in Las Vegas. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

YOU NEVER KNOW

Always be prepared because you never will know where your going to make an image that your happy about at. Im constantly pushing to get into peoples personal and intimate places as a photojournalist but sometimes one of your favorite images can come from a dog park.

Annette Thomas, 52, rubs one of the many dogs that she cares for on Monday, Dec. 26, 2016, in Las Vegas at the Kellogg Park Dog Field. Thomas is the founder of Pawsitively, a dog rescue group. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Annette Thomas, 52, right, oversees several dogs Monday, Dec. 26, 2016, in Las Vegas at the Kellogg Park Dog Field. Thomas is the founder of Pawsitively, a dog rescue group. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Annette Thomas, 52, reacts while being kissed by one of the many dogs that she cares for as Shirley Bergesson, 52, watches Monday, Dec. 26, 2016, in Las Vegas at the Kellogg Park Dog Field. Thomas is the founder of Pawsitively, a dog rescue group. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Annette Thomas, 52, opens the fence while walking a dog to her car Monday, Dec. 26, 2016, in Las Vegas at the Kellogg Park Dog Field. Thomas is the founder of Pawsitively, a dog rescue group. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Annette Thomas, 52, opens the fence while walking a dog to her car Monday, Dec. 26, 2016, in Las Vegas at the Kellogg Park Dog Field. Thomas is the founder of Pawsitively, a dog rescue group. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Car stickers on the rear of Annette Thomas's car Monday, Dec. 26, 2016, in Las Vegas. Thomas is the founder of Pawsitively, a dog rescue group. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

STAY ALERT

I was assigned to photograph a protest. After photographing the demonstration I was preparing to return to the office. While driving out of the parking lot I saw about three cop cars light up in my rear view mirror. I figured I had everything I needed but let me return to the location and see whats going on. I was able to catch the arrest of one of the protesters. An image I would not have gotten if I was not paying attention.

A man is arrested after an altercation that occurred inside of a Carles Jr. restaurant near the intersection of Maryland and Desert Inn Road, on Thursday, Jan. 12, 2017, in Las Vegas. An employee of the restaurant hit one of the protestors which led to the arrest. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Protestors at a Carles Jr. restaurant near the intersection of Maryland and Desert Inn Road, on Thursday, Jan. 12, 2017, in Las Vegas. Their goal is to protest President elect Donald Trump's nomination of fast-food CEO Andy Puzder for U.S. Secretary of Labor. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Protestor Emily Zamora, 30, at a Carles Jr. restaurant near the intersection of Maryland and Desert Inn Road, on Thursday, Jan. 12, 2017, in Las Vegas. Her goal is to protest President elect Donald Trump's nomination of fast-food CEO Andy Puzder for U.S. Secretary of Labor. "He has been on record saying that he wants robots to replace working families, his rhetoric shows that he is not fit to represent us," Zamora said. (Christian K. Lee/Las Vegas Review-Journal) @chrisklee_jpeg

Thanks for looking. To stay up to date on my daily assignments follow me on Instagram and Twitter at @chrisklee_jpeg

Washington Post: 2nd Blog Post

It been about 6 weeks here at The Washington Post and 2 weeks since I posted a blog post. However I have produced so much imagery within the last couple of weeks that I found it necessary to share some more work and where Im at in my life in regards to the photo world. Over the last couple of weeks I have spent alot of time photographing protests along with my regular daily assignments. 

Photo Life Update: I was recently accepted to The Missouri Photo Workshop and I wanted to send a huge shoutout to my University. Although my university doesnt offer a photojournalism program they have been extremely supportive of my goals and accomplishments. They are helping me fund my trip to the workshop and I just wanted to say Thank You.

IG and Twitter: @chrisklee_jpeg

Protests And Vigils

DC Protests

Arykah Bradford, 33, speaks to protestors as they joins hands during a demonstration in front of the White House on Friday, July 8, 2016 in Washington, DC. The demonstration was held in response to the officer involved shooting deaths' of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Arykah Bradford, 33, displays a sign on her back as she joins hands with protestors during a demonstration in front of the White House on Friday, July 8, 2016 in Washington, DC. The demonstration was held in response to the officer involved shooting deaths' of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Arykah Bradford, 33, speaks to protestors as they joins hands during a demonstration in front of the White House on Friday, July 8, 2016 in Washington, DC. The demonstration was held in response to the officer involved shooting deaths' of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Sarah Bradford, 23, reacts during a Black Lives Matter demonstration Friday, July 8, 2016 in Washington, DC.The demonstration was held in response to the officer involved shooting deaths' of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

An officer watches protestors as they march Friday, July 8, 2016 in Washington, DC. The demonstration was held in response to the officer involved shooting deaths' of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

A makeshift memorial is seen during a Black Lives Matter demonstration on Friday, July 8, 2016 in Washington, DC. The demonstration was held in response to the officer involved shooting deaths' of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

A crowd of protestors are seen during a Black Lives Matter demonstration on Friday, July 8, 2016 in Washington, DC. The demonstration was held in response to the officer involved shooting deaths' of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

 A crowd of protestors are seen during a Black Lives Matter demonstration on Friday, July 8, 2016 in Washington, DC. The demonstration was held in response to the officer involved shooting deaths' of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Protestors demonstrate on Friday, July 8, 2016 in Washington, DC. The demonstration was held in response to the officer involved shooting deaths' of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

J'Adore Herbert, 5, center is seen during a protest on Saturday, July 9, 2016 in Washington, DC.The demonstration was held in response to the officer involved shooting deaths' of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Protestors demonstrate on Saturday, July 9, 2016 in Washington, DC. The demonstration was held in response to the officer involved shooting deaths' of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Protestors block an intersection as people eat their food at a restaurant on Saturday, July 9, 2016 in Washington, DC. The demonstration was held in response to the officer involved shooting deaths' of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Onlookers photograph protestors as they demonstrate on Saturday, July 9, 2016 in Washington, DC. The demonstration was held in response to the officer involved shooting deaths' of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

 Onlookers look out of their home window during a protest on Saturday, July 9, 2016 in Washington, DC. The demonstration was held in response to the officer involved shooting deaths' of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Protestors march down a highway Saturday, July 9, 2016 in Washington, DC.The demonstration was held in response to the officer involved shooting deaths' of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Protestors rally towards The White House on Sunday, July 10, 2016 in Washington, DC. The demonstration was held in response to the officer involved shooting deaths' of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Onlookers watch as protestors rally towards The White House on Sunday, July 10, 2016 in Washington, DC. The demonstration was held in response to the officer involved shooting deaths' of Philando Castile and Alton Sterling. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

 

Police Officer Vigil

Officer Vigil

My assignment was to cover a vigil that The Fairfax County Police Department was holding to stand in solidarity with officers in Dallas, Texas who lost their lives. This wasnt your typical vigil. There were no posters made or candles lit. However there were emotion and I tryed my best to cover that.

Fairfax County Police Officer J.J. Snyder reacts as officers gather outside of the county courthouse Friday, July 8, 2016 in Fairfax, Virginia.  The demonstration was held to stand in solidarity with officers who lost their lives during protests in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

A Fairfax County Police Officer's badge is covered as officers gather outside of the county courthouse Friday, July 8, 2016 in Fairfax, Virginia.  Officers covered their badge to stand in solidarity with officers who lost their lives during protests in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Fairfax County Police Officer Sgt. Mike Gubesch shakes hands with a child outside of the county courthouse Friday, July 8, 2016 in Fairfax, Virginia. A demonstration was held by County Officers to stand in solidarity with officers who lost their lives during protests in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Fairfax County Police Officer Brian Plaugher reacts before a demonstation outside of the county courthouse Friday, July 8, 2016 in Fairfax, Virginia. The demonstration was held to stand in solidarity with officers who lost their lives during protests in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

 

DC P.A.I.N.T. Institute

DC P.A.I.N.T. Institute

DC P.A.I.N.T. Institute is a program that was deigned to give resources and mentorship to artists and underprivileged students. I found the program to be very beneficial to them. They were very talented. Some of the students struggled with personal situations but this place allowed them to release and a positive way.

Simone Crozier, 19, paints Wednesday, July 13, 2016 in Washington, DC. Crozier is a participant in the P.A.I.N.T.S. Institute, a program that helps connect underserved youth with art, financial literacy and mentorship. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Alston Tobin, 20, left and Phranc Starweather, 15, laughs while painting Wednesday, July 13, 2016 in Washington, DC. The students are participants in the P.A.I.N.T.S. Institute, a program that helps connect underserved youth with art, financial literacy and mentorship. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Jillian Jackson, 16, holds her brush while deciding what she will paint Wednesday, July 13, 2016 in Washington, DC. Jackson is a participant in the P.A.I.N.T.S. Institute, a program that helps connect underserved youth with art, financial literacy and mentorship. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

A P.A.I.N.T.S. Institute student calculates how much it would cost to produce a particular body of art during an exercise that was designed to help students manage their art related finances Wednesday, July 13, 2016 in Washington, DC. Also seen is a picture the student drew. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

A P.A.I.N.T.S. Institute instructor waits for students to be released from a class where they are learning to manage their art related finances Wednesday, July 13, 2016 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

P.A.I.N.T.S. Institute students paint Wednesday, July 13, 2016 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

 

Brave New Voices

Impromptu Open Mic

Poets from across the country traveled to DC to compete in a poetry slam competition. During their visit they visited the MLK memorial for an impromptu poetry slam, where some of the poets spoke on race and social injustice and other issues important to them.

Anthony Aceyon Owens, 33, thrusts his hand through the air while reciting one of his poetry pieces Thursday, July 14, 2016 in Washington, DC. Owens got into poetry after being issued into a psych ward, after what he describes as experiencing a mental breakdown. "All I had was a pen and notebook and that's how I got into poetry," Owens said. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Poet Jordan Perry, 17, recites one of his poetry pieces  in front of the Martin Luther King Memorial Thursday, July 14, 2016 in Washington, DC. He is part of a weeklong poetry slam festival. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Poet Jordan Perry, 17, is seen in a portrait after reciting one of his poetry pieces in front of the Martin Luther King Memorial Thursday, July 14, 2016 in Washington, DC. "We can't do anything without cops looking at us as lunch meat for their bullets," Perry said. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

A poet recites a poetry piece in front of the Martin Luther King Memorial Thursday, July 14, 2016 in Washington, DC. She is part of a weeklong poetry slam festival. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

 Member of the Breathing Fire Poetry Slam team of Rochester, New York is seen in a silhouetted portrait as they each recite one of their original pieces Thursday, July 14, 2016 in Washington, DC. The poets are part of a weeklong poetry slam festival. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

 

Feature Hunting

Feature Hunt

The first image was captured after I decided to just take a random walk through neighborhoods in DC and to bring my camera along with me. I stopped pass a basketball court and was able to make the image. The older gentleman and I spoke for nearly 3hrs discussing about how through his eyes Washington, DC has changed. I always believed the best way to understand a city is to speak with the people there.

The reflection of DC native John Taylor, 52, left,  and a neighborhood youngster is seen during a one-on-one basketball game at a Parkview neighborhood basketball court Tuesday, July 5, 206 in Washington D.C.  (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

I had the opportunity to shadow talented Washington Post Photographer Marvin Joseph, who does amazing portrait work. After that assignment we visited the Tidal Basin to look for a feature. Marvin had the idea of chasing a duck boat around the lake. We both were able to make some pretty images. Below are a couple of the images I made.

A couple of tourists takes a ride in the Tidal Basin in a Swan Boat while onlookers enjoy the view of the George Washington monument  Wednesday, July 6, 2016 in Washington D.C. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

A couple of tourists takes a ride in the Tidal Basin in a Swan Boat Wednesday, July 6, 2016 in Washington D.C. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Foreign Exchange Students

Finland foreign exchange and American students greet each other during a visit to Gaithersburg High School on Tuesday, July 12, 2016 in Gaithersburg, MD. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

(left to right) Abreeya Darda, 16, Julianne Noveras, 17, and Finland foreign exchange student who is seen framed between the American and Finland flag hangs out at Gaithersburg High School on Tuesday, July 12, 2016 in Gaithersburg, MD. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Finland foreign exchange and American students play a game during a visit to Gaithersburg High School on Tuesday, July 12, 2016 in Gaithersburg, MD. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Finland foreign exchange students are seen during a tour through Gaithersburg High School Tuesday, July 12, 2016 in Gaithersburg, MD. The students were shocked at how seriously Americans take their sports. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Finland foreign exchange and American students greet each other as Carolyn West-Gipson, center, gives instructions for a game they will play at Gaithersburg High School on Tuesday, July 12, 2016 in Gaithersburg, MD. Gipson decided to organize the Finnish students' visit to the school after she noticed that they weren't visiting other American students during their stay in America. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

GrandFamilies

Grandfamilies

This story was about grandparents who are raising families. This assignment focused on a grandmother who raised her grandchild after her son and daughter went to prison.

Richard Sowell, 7, left, smiles at his grandmother Olivia Chase, 60, shortly after she picked him up from school Tuesday, June 28, 2016 at Thomson Elementary School in Washington D.C. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Olivia Chase, 60, gazes out the wind during a taxi ride to take her grandson to swimming lessons Tuesday, June 28, 2016 in Washington D.C. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Richard Sowell, 7, speaks to another swimmer before he prepares to jump in the 11ft end of the pool at the Banneker Pool Tuesday, June 28, 2016 in Washington D.C. Richard's grandmother has had him in the pool since a very young age. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Richard Sowell, 7, gazes at the swimming pool as he waits for his grandmother Olivia Chase, 60, to catch up with him before his swimming lessons Tuesday, June 28, 2016 in Washington D.C. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

1st Month at Washington Post

The first month of my internship at the Washington Post has been a great time. I have had an opportunity to meet some great people in this city and learn that DC has a lot more to offer than politics. In this blog post I shared some of my favorite assignments. Take a look! 

Follow me on IG for regular updates and posts: @chrisklee_jpeg

FUNERAL AND BURIAL OF TUSKEEGEE AIRMEN

Guests and loved ones attend the funeral service of Tuskegee Airman and three-time Olympic medalist Malvin Preston Whitfield at the National Cathedral on Wednesday, June 8 2016 in Washington DC. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

A mourner is comforted at the funeral service of Tuskegee Airman and three-time Olympic medalist Malvin Preston Whitfield at the National Cathedral on Wednesday, June 8 2016 in Washington DC. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

The remains of Tuskegee Airman and three-time Olympic medalist Malvin Preston Whitfield are carried outside of the National Cathedral on Wednesday, June 8 2016 in Washington DC. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Tuskegee Airman and three-time Olympic medalist Malvin Preston Whitfield oldest daughter is comforted after his funeral service outside the National Cathedral on Wednesday, June 8 2016 in Washington DC. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

: A ceremonial song is played at the Arlington National Cemetery on Wednesday, June 8 2016 in Arlington, Virginia. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Nola Whitfield reacts after receiving a flag during the burial of her husband at the Arlington National Cemetery on Wednesday, June 8 2016 in Arlington, Virginia. Her husband, was Tuskegee Airman and three-time Olympic medalist Malvin Preston Whitfield.(Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

The daughter of Tuskegee Airman and three-time Olympic medalist Malvin Preston Whitfield reacts at his burial at the Arlington National Cemetery on Wednesday, June 8 2016 in Arlington, Virginia. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

ACTIVIST PHILLIP PARNELL

 Activist Phillip Parnell, 65, is seen in a portrait surrounded by many of the panels he has created in efforts to highlight the city's failure to solve homicides east of the Anacostia River Wednesday, June 22, 2016 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Activist Phillip Parnell, 65, glues the final homicide victim's poster to a panel he has created to highlight the city's failure to solve homicides east of the Anacostia River Wednesday, June 22, 2016 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

ORLANDO IN D.C.

Father Patrick Conroy leads a prayer with members of the LGBT and Muslim community for the victims who were shot and killed by a gunman in an Orlando, Florida nightclub Monday, June 13 2016 in Washington, DC outside the U.S. Capitol. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

RAMADAN

Muslim men and children recite verses of the Quran before a ceremonial meal at the Masjid Muhammad Mosque on Wednesday June 15, 2016 in Washington D.C. The daily Ramadan fast ends at sunset with a prayer and feast, known as Iftar. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Isa Khokhar, right, 7, helps serve food during a ceremonial meal at the Masjid Muhammad Mosque on Wednesday June 15, 2016 in Washington D.C. The daily Ramadan fast ends at sunset with a prayer and feast, known as Iftar. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Tyler Jabari-Rainey, 9, pauses while reciting verses of the Quran at the Masjid Muhammad Mosque on Wednesday June 15, 2016 in Washington D.C. The daily Ramadan fast ends at sunset with a prayer and feast, known as Iftar. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

TAXATION WITHOUT REPRESENTATION

DC residents and elected officials met to discuss becoming the 51st state of the United States. DC has long fought for statehood and while it seems like most of the residents are for it, from the looks of the meeting there were different opinions on how they should get there.

D.C. resident Beth Marcus walks away from the microphone after addressing the commission during the New Columbia Statehood Commission meeting Friday, June 17, 2016 at Woodrow Wilson High School in Washington, D.C.  (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

A D.C. resident claps during the New Columbia Statehood Commission meeting Friday, June 17, 2016 at Woodrow Wilson High School in Washington, D.C.  (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

The New Columbia Statehood Commission meeting is held Friday, June 17, 2016 at Woodrow Wilson High School in Washington, D.C.  (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Josh Burch, 38, listens during the New Columbia Statehood Commission meeting Friday, June 17, 2016 at Woodrow Wilson High School in Washington, D.C. "Its a disappointment that D.C. residents can only voice an opinion and not vote for actual change. I'm still for D.C. statehood and will vote yes in November" Burch said. He also suggested that the commission should consider changing the proposed name of New Columbia to be named after Frederick Douglas. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

 Lakaiela Dolman, 6, pink shirt, practices her speech with the assistant of her grandmother Susan Woodard, bottom right, before the start of the New Columbia Statehood Commission meeting Friday, June 17, 2016 in Washington, D.C.  Her brother Tayvon Dolman, 5, plays with an american flag as Anise Jenkins, red shirt, assists with the speech. (Photo by Christian K. Le

D.C. resident Alan Morrison listens during the New Columbia Statehood Commission meeting Friday, June 17, 2016 at Woodrow Wilson High School in Washington, D.C.(Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

BLIND ROWBOATER

Ibrahim but better known as Dammie, was a joy to photograph. He laughed the entire time. People like him motivate me. It seems as if he gets up everyday and enjoys life. He views being blind as a challenge instead of downfall.

 Ibrahim Onafeko, 32, better known as Dammie is a blind competitive row boater. He hopes to represent Nigeria in the Paralympics. "Being blind would discourage some people, but I say it as a challenge," Onafeko said Monday June 27, 2016 in Washington D.C. at the Anacostia Community Boathouse.  (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

 Ibrahim Onafeko and his training partner rushes through the water while training Monday June 27, 2016 in Washington D.C. on the Anacostia River.  Onafeko, is a blind competitive row boater who hopes to represent Nigeria in the Paralympics. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Ibrahim Onafeko, 32, trains Monday June 27, 2016 in Washington D.C. on the Anacostia River.  Onafeko, is a blind competitive row boater who hopes to represent Nigeria in the Paralympics. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

 Ibrahim Onafeko, 32, left, and Dan Longo, right, takes a quick break while training Monday June 27, 2016 in Washington D.C. on the Anacostia River.  Onafeko, is a blind competitive row boater who hopes to represent Nigeria in the Paralympics. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

BEAT THE STREETS

Antonio Brown, 24, watches over children as they ride their bikes and hang out at the "Beat the Streets" community event Wednesday, June 29, 2016. The event is part of  DC's summer crime initiative to promote non-violence in communities. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Community members and Police Officers are seen at the "Beat the Streets" community event Wednesday, June 29, 2016. The event is part of  DC's summer crime initiative to promote non-violence in communities. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Maurice Plater, 13, looks back after cuffing Tony Martin, 32, with a set of officer's handcuffs during the "Beat the Streets" community event Wednesday, June 29, 2016. The event is part of  DC's summer crime initiative to promote non-violence in communities. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Cadet Kaelin Villegas, right, gives a high-five to Raehelle Williams, 2, as her sister Cori King, 8, plays in the water during the "Beat the Streets" community event Wednesday, June 29, 2016. The event is part of  DC's summer crime initiative to promote non-violence in communities. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

A youngster performs a popular DC area dance called "Beat Ya Feet" during the "Beat the Streets" community event Wednesday, June 29, 2016. The dance originated and is popular amongst African Americans in the DC area. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

(left to right)  Swag, 21, as he refers to himself, and Diego Green, 19, laughs at Davon Marquise, 20, as he dances to music during the "Beat the Streets" community event Wednesday, June 29, 2016. (Photo by Christian K. Lee/The Washington Post)

Reflection on the year 2015.

“At first I wasn’t sure that I had the talent, but I did know I had a fair of failure, and that fear compelled me to fight off anything that might abet it"  -Gordon Parks

Chicago Blackhawks fans celebrate in the Wrigleyville neighborhood of Chicago after the Blackhawks defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning to win the NHL hockey Stanley Cup on Monday, June 15, 2015, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee)

This year has been filled with mixed emotions. As a creative I believe we go through a cycle. Were happy when were creating well and not so happy when were not. When Im not producing well I honestly can not sleep, its like I have to produce every now and then just to be happy with myself.

Photography in an essence has become a part of me. Just as a person needs food to fuel their body, I need photography to fuel my mind. I know this may sound corny but it is the truth.

I found it impossible to show my favorite images from the year without also discussing the things I struggled with this year as well. Many times when we see a photographers work on a media platform, we are seeing their best images. Maybe 15 to 20 singles that they feel represents them the best during their entire photojournalism career.

I have realized that behind every great image, lies thousands of images that didn’t make the cut into a photographer’s final portfolio. The point im trying to make here is this year I tried my hardest to do my best at all times. Realizing that in the end hard work and love for this industry will shine.

Okay enough of the sentimental stuff.

The images that I posted are in no way an exhaustive list of the best images I took this year, but the images I decided to share are some of the more memorable images I took.

Below are 3 things that really helped me this past year to progress as a photojournalist:

1.    Focus on my work

·      As I have mentioned above don’t get caught up and what everyone else is producing. Make goals for yourself and try your hardest to accomplish them. Its difficult especially when we are swamped with great images every day. Media platforms post several great images a day and it may be difficult to feel as if you can live up to it. That’s why its important to sometimes shut down from Facebook and Instagram for a while until you create your own identity or your own unique visions for projects.

2.    Stop Making Excuses

·      I once heard a National Geographic photo editor say. That if you want to make it in this industry as a photographer, photography must come first and everything else in your life must come second. She said photography must come first to relationships, among other things. Now you can imagine this was hard to stomach at first but I began to realize as my love grew for this industry how much of what she was saying was true. I have sacrificed time with friends to spend time with my subjects. I have sacrificed money for clothes to invest in better camera gear. The amount that we sacrifice is reflective in our work. Sometimes we have to stop making excuses and just do it.

3.    Build Relationships

·      Although the photojournalism industry is competitive in nature it is important that we stick together as professionals. A lot of opportunities that I have been granted inside and outside of photojournalism has been credited to making great relationships. I try to learn from everyone around me. My father at a young age told me something that has stuck with me throughout my life. “Christian sometimes its best to just shut up and listen, if your babbling your mouth how can you learn anything. When you listen to others, that’s when your learning something that you don’t know,” he said.

Enough of my talking here are the photos.

A roller derby team slaps paraders hands at the 46th annual Chicago Pride Parade Sunday, June 28, 2015 in the boystown neighborhood of Chicago. Photo by Christian K. Lee

Chicago Blackhawks fans reacts as a flare lit during a celebration on Addison Street in the Wrigleyville neighborhood after the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup, defeating the Tampa Bay Lightning Monday, June 15, 2015 in Chicago. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee)

Paraders carry a Human Rights Campaign flag while celebrating at the Chicago Pride Parade Sunday, June 28, 2015 in the boystown neighborhood of Chicago. Two days prior, The Supreme Court declared that same-sex couples have a right to marry anywhere in the United States. Photo by Christian K. Lee

After coaching back to back baseball games Officer Bolin prepares for work June 6 2015. He keeps a change of clothes in his car so that it is easier for him to make it to work. Photo by Christian K. Lee

Members of the team manage their weight by drilling. Wrestlers are required to meet strict weight guidlines to competes a their weight classes. A few members of the team were a couple pounds over but with a quick workout its easy to burn off excess water weight. Photo by Christian K. Lee

Travis Detritus is a circus freakshow performer. He uses tools such as the screwdriver he has plunged in to his nose to cause harm to himself, all for the sake of entertainment. "I get joy from providing a sense of enterainment for people" Detritus said while sitting at a bar in Alton, IL where he entices guests. Photo by Christian K. Lee

San Diego Chargers' fan Johnny Abundez protests outside of the NFL Owners Meeting at the Hyatt Regency hotel, Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2015, in Schaumburg, Ill. Abundez said "I want to keep our team in its hometown, according to NFL bylaws a team has to do everything in its power to remain in its hometown market". (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee)

Democratic presidential candidate, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I -Vt., reacts during a fundraiser reception Monday, Aug. 17, 2015, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee)

Antonio Brown, left, is embraced by a community member in front of a make-shift memorial, for Brown's 7-year-old son Monday, July 6, 2015, in Chicago. Authorities say 7-year-old Amari Brown, was among three people who were shot and killed overnight during a weekend outbreak of gun-related violence in Chicago. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee)

Sandra Bland's sister Sharon Cooper kneels at Bland's burial site at the Mt. Glenwood Memorial Gardens West cemetery Saturday, July 25, 2015, in Willow Springs, Ill. An autopsy report released Friday found that Sandra Bland used a plastic trash bag to hang herself three days after a confrontational traffic stop. The 28-year-old woman’s family has questioned the findings, saying she was excited about starting a new job and wouldn’t have taken her own life. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee)

A group of skydivers approach a plane that is preparing to take flight Sunday, Oct. 4, 2015 in Taylorville, Illinois. Photo by Christian K. Lee

SIUE junior Darius Smith, left, and senior Ahmad Evans, center, competes at the Gateway Invite hosted by the university on April 18, 2015. Photo by Christian K. Lee/Alestle

nior pitcher Haley Chambers and the Cougars celebrate during a conference tournament game against Moorehead State University. Cougars win 8-3 to advance in the tournament. Photo by Christian K. Lee/Alestle

Veteran Dave Meredith, age 61, tears up as he reflects on his time in the Vietnam War as an artillery man. "I was spit on and called a killer when I first came home from the war, I am happy that we are getting the credit we deserve now," Meredith said.

Veteran Dave Meredith, age 61, served in the Vietnam War as an artillery man. "I was spit on and called a killer when I first came home from the war, I am happy that we are getting the credit we deserve now," Meredith said. Here he sits on his porch as he reflects on his fallen comrades and his time spent serving in the military, Memorial Day 2015. 

Chicago Blackhawks fan Holly Frolek creates a confetti angel as she celebrates during a rally for the NHL hockey club's Stanley Cup championship at Soldier Field, Thursday, June 18, 2015, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee)

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Blog Post - 1st Month as Associated Press Intern | Christian K. Lee

“To me, photography is an art of observation. It’s about finding something interesting in an ordinary place... I’ve found it has little to do with the things you see and everything to do with the way you see them”

— Elliott Erwitt

I am currently a little over a month into my internship with The Associated Press in Chicago. I wanted to share a few of the images I personally think shows what I covered so far. Additionally I would like to share some of the things I have learned. This blog will be a little different from the others because I will post short blurbs in between images:

THE FEATURE HUNT

Here my assignment was to "FEATURE HUNT". This pretty much means that it was my job to return with a pretty photo. This can be a little intimidating becuase if you don't return with a great image, you basically didn't do your job. I love taking photos of children because they will eventually ignore you and go back to having fun which will then allow you to become invisible and capture them in a natural moment. This assignment strengthened the fact that pretty images are everywhere, we just have to find them. In fact I remember making a Facebook post one day stating that in "in order to take a beautiful image one must first see the world as beautiful".

Anthony Muzi stands in water from the Crown Fountain at Millennium Park, Thursday, June 25, 2015, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee)

Stanley Cup Victory Celebration

It was my assignment to search for moments during the 2015 Stanley cup victory celebration at Soldier Field stadium in Chicago. A few days prior I had just documented the initial celebration/almost border line riots. Those photos can be seen in another blog post here. Below I have posted a few images from the  2015 Stanley cup victory celebration at Soldier Field. The first image I posted is of a lady making a confetti angel. This is by far my favorite. I think it really encompassed how everyone felt that day and a few days prior the night of the victory. It was a surreal moment, it was as if everything in their lives were okay now due to the Blackhawks Stanley Cup victory.

Chicago Blackhawks fan Holly Frolek, creates a confetti angel as she celebrates the 2015 Stanley cup victory at Soldier Field, Thursday, June 18, 2015, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee) 

Chicago Blackhawk fan Dawid Partynski, celebrates the 2015 Stanley cup victory at Soldier Field, Thursday, June 18, 2015, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee) 

Chicago Blackhawk fans celebrate a 2015 Stanley cup victory at Soldier Field, Thursday, June 18, 2015, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee) 

A Chicago Blackhawk fan holds up the number three symbolizing the amount of Stanley Cup Championship victories the team has had in the past six years, Thursday, June 18, 2015, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee) 

Talia Pisano's  Wilms Tumor patient

Frankly this assignment almost brought me to tears. I tried my best not to cry because I did not want to make the situation uncomfortable. Talia is a one year old who has just undergone surgery to preserve he ovaries in an attempt to allow her to give birth in her later years. She is a Wilms Tumor patient, as an effect Pisano has had one of her kidney's removed and has relapsed in the brain. This is a cutting edge procedure because it hasn't proven successful for children her age. I had the opportunity to take portraits of her and document her 2nd birthday party.

Talia Pisano, 1,  stands in her hospital bed Thursday, June 11, 2015, in Chicago. Pisano is diagnosed with Wilms Tumor, a form of cancer that effects the kidney. As an effect Pisano has had one of her kidney's removed and has relapsed in the brain. She is undergoing a rare option where doctors will attempt to freeze her ovaries in efforts for her to reproduce in later years. Although the procedure has been tested in women with developed ovaries it has not been attempted for girls her age.(AP Photo/Christian K. Lee)

Talia Pisano, 1,  heart rate is checked by her doctor Thursday, June 11, 2015, in Chicago. Pisano is diagnosed with Wilms Tumor, a form of cancer that effects the kidney. As an effect Pisano has had one of her kidney's removed and has relapsed in the brain. She is undergoing a rare option where doctors will attempt to freeze her ovaries in efforts for her to reproduce in later years. Although the procedure has been tested in women with developed ovaries it has not been attempted for girls her age.(AP Photo/Christian K. Lee)

Talia Pisano celebrates her second birthday with family and friends Saturday, June 13 2015 in Wheaton, IL.

Talia Pisano celebrates her second birthday with family and friends Saturday, June 13 2015 in Wheaton, IL.

Talia Pisano celebrates her second birthday with family and friends Saturday, June 13 2015 in Wheaton, IL.

Talia Pisano celebrates her second birthday with family and friends Saturday, June 13 2015 in Wheaton, IL.

Pride Parade 2015

This parade was very historic for Illinois because it was the first parade since The Supreme Court declared that same-sex couples have a right to marry anywhere in the United States. Illinois same-sex marriage has been legal since June 1, 2014 due to a bill that was signed by former Gov. Pat Quinn.

A roller derby team slaps paraders hands at the 46th annual Chicago Pride Parade Sunday, June 28, 2015 in the boystown neighborhood of Chicago.

Paraders celebrates at the 46th annual Chicago Pride Parade Sunday, June 28, 2015 in the boystown neighborhood of Chicago.

Paraders celebrates around a pit of water at the Chicago Pride Parade Sunday, June 28, 2015 in the boystown neighborhood of Chicago.

Paraders celebrates around a pit of water at the Chicago Pride Parade Sunday, June 28, 2015 in the boystown neighborhood of Chicago.

Paraders carry a Human Rights Campaign flag while celebrating at the Chicago Pride Parade Sunday, June 28, 2015 in the boystown neighborhood of Chicago.

Press Conferences 

I have been given the assignment to document press conferences a lot since Ive been here. After you shoot them about 3 time they all seem to become a blur, but I try my best to come back with great images every time. The below image I took at a presser, I think this was my favorite photo take at a press conference.

Muslim chaplain Tahera Ahmad responds to a question during a news conference Wednesday, June 3, 2015, in Chicago. A Shuttle America flight attendant "will no longer serve United customers" following an investigation into the Muslim chaplain's complaint of discriminatory treatment during a flight last week, an airline spokesman said Wednesday. Ahmad said a flight attendant declined her request for an unopened can of Diet Coke because it could be used as a weapon. The flight was operated by Shuttle America for United. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee)

Protests Galore

Illinois is currently undergoing a budget crisis and many groups have taking to the streets to voice their concerns. Below are a few of the images I have taken of protests.

Pamela Broomfield, 56, warns Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner of how the proposed budget cut will affect her on Wednesday, June 24, 2015, in Chicago. Broomfield is a resident at St Taici Place Apartments and she is one of the many residents who will be affected from the proposed budget cuts. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee)

Members of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees protest outside in Chicago June 9  2015. More than 40,000 state workers’ contracts are set to expire at the end of the month, but no agreement is in sight between the various labor unions representing them and GOP Gov. Bruce Rauner, who has made damping down the union might a focus of his first months in office. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee)

Members of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees protest outside in Chicago June 9  2015. More than 40,000 state workers’ contracts are set to expire at the end of the month, but no agreement is in sight between the various labor unions representing them and GOP Gov. Bruce Rauner, who has made damping down the union might a focus of his first months in office. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee)

Craig Cleve, left, marches with members of the Chicago Teachers Union as they picket outside City Hall to protest $200 million in planned public schools cuts Thursday, July 2, 2015, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee) 

Members of the Chicago Teachers Union picket outside City Hall to protest $200 million in planned public schools cuts Thursday, July 2, 2015, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee) 

Members of the Chicago Teachers Union picket outside City Hall to protest $200 million in planned public schools cuts Thursday, July 2, 2015, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee) 

7 year old's death

7-year-old Amari Brown was shot and killed over the fourth of July weekend in Chicago. Sometimes you feel like a jerk when your asked to photograph a memorial site at the location where someone was killed. When I arrive on location I was not greeted happily. The family had been bashed by the media and did not want anymore attention. Sometimes I realized instead of trying to explain to a family why you need to photograph them, it is better to listen to their concerns.

This incident reminded me of the severity of the violence in Chicago. However it did not surprise me because I am a Chicago resident and violence has always been around. Below are a few of the images I took for this assignment.

Antonio Brown looks at memorial to his son, Amari, after Amari was gunned down on July 4 2014. (AP Photo/ Christian K. Lee)

Antonio Brown, father of Amari Brown, speaks near a make-shift memorial near the 1100 block of Harding on Chicago's West Side Monday, July 6, 2015. Authorities say 7-year-old Amari Brown, who was celebrating the Fourth of July with his family, was among three people who were shot and killed overnight during a weekend outbreak of gun-related violence in Chicago. Police say Antonio Brown's refusal to cooperate with detectives highlights the city's ongoing challenge in curbing gang-related violence. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee)

Amari Brown is seen in a photo with his father, Antonio Brown, Monday, July 6, 2015, at a memorial in Chicago. Authorities say 7-year-old Amari Brown, who was celebrating the Fourth of July with his family, was among three people who were shot and killed overnight during a weekend outbreak of gun-related violence in Chicago. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee)

Amari Brown is seen in a photo with his father, Antonio Brown, Monday, July 6, 2015, at a memorial in Chicago. Authorities say 7-year-old Amari Brown, who was celebrating the Fourth of July with his family, was among three people who were shot and killed overnight during a weekend outbreak of gun-related violence in Chicago. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee)

A memorial in honor of Amari Brown is seen, Monday, July 6, 2015, in Chicago. Authorities say 7-year-old Brown, who was celebrating the Fourth of July with his family, was among three people who were shot and killed overnight during a weekend outbreak of gun-related violence in Chicago. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee)

Antonio Brown, left, father of Amari Brown, is embraced by a community member, Monday, July 6, 2015, in Chicago. Authorities say 7-year-old Amari Brown, who was celebrating the Fourth of July with his family, was among three people who were shot and killed overnight during a weekend outbreak of gun-related violence in Chicago. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee)

A person displays a memorial pin in honor of Amari Brown, Monday, July 6, 2015, in Chicago. Authorities say 7-year-old Brown, who was celebrating the Fourth of July with his family, was among three people who were shot and killed overnight during a weekend outbreak of gun-related violence in Chicago. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee)

Members of the community march on Chicago's West Side to protest the death of 7-year-old Amari Brown Monday, July 6, 2015, in Chicago. Brown, who was one of seven people shot to death in Chicago over the holiday weekend, was the son of a gang leader with a lengthy arrest record, and police say the man's refusal to cooperate with detectives highlights the city's ongoing challenge in curbing gang-related violence. (AP Photo/Christian K. Lee)

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