Photographing President Obama

The photographer shares their first experience photographing a president, specifically President Obama. They describe the unexpected opportunity to have one-on-one time with him and capture underwater images. The experience is compared to a previous National Geographic assignment on dolphins. The photographer reflects on the fleeting nature of magical moments and the quick departure of Air Force One.

What was the photographer's initial feeling about photographing a president?

• Excited and confident

• Nervous and inexperienced

• Indifferent and casual

• Overwhelmed and anxious

What unexpected opportunity did the photographer receive?

• A chance to photograph the president underwater

• An invitation to dine with the president

• A private interview with the president

• A tour of the White House

How did the photographer feel during the underwater session with President Obama?

• Nervous but focused

• Calm and relaxed

• Bored and uninterested

• Confused and disoriented

What did the photographer want to capture during the underwater session?

• The president's face

• The surrounding corals

• The president's swimming technique

• The president's side profile

What previous experience did the photographer compare to photographing President Obama?

• A fashion photoshoot

• A cover story on dolphins

• A wildlife safari

• A landscape photography project

What decision did the photographer make regarding equipment during the underwater session?

• To use a tripod

• To use a drone

• To use a wide-angle lens

• Not to use flashes or strobes

What did the photographer do after the underwater session?

• Watched the president depart on Air Force One

• Reviewed the photos immediately

• Conducted an interview with the president

• Went for another swim

How did the photographer feel about the quickness of the experience?

• It was too long

• It was just right

• It was too slow

• It was overwhelming

What did the photographer need to do after the experience?

• Process the reality of the event

• Edit the photos

• Write a report

• Share the photos on social media