about joan

Hi, I'm Joan Cusick – a documentary photographer

who focuses on stories that bring generations together.

I began my career as a writer and editor for The Commercial Appeal  in Memphis before moving into corporate communications at Maybelline, FedEx, and Charles Schwab. I was always involved in storytelling, but I wanted to be behind the camera – not in front of it. So in 2013, I traded corporate life for a full-time photography career.

Now, I specialize in photographing people, whether it's a quick corporate "head shot" or coverage of a major life event, such as a bar mitzvah or wedding.

My journalistic style is also well-suited to long-term documentary projects. For example, the Sacramento Metropolitan Arts Commission commissioned me to document the development of local art for the Golden 1 Center. I have also followed the victims of pesticide drift and wildfire for ag-related nonprofits including  Californians for Pesticide Reform and the Community Alliance with Family Farmers.

As a writer and photographer, my work has been published in Civil Eats, Comstock's magazine, Edible Sacramento, J. the Jewish Weekly, Outword, Real Weddings, Salon and The Huffington Post. I am a member of the National Press Photographers Association and Professional Photographers of America.

If my storytelling style seems like a good fit for your next project or event, please contact me today. I take a limited number of new clients each year, only by referral, and strive to build lasting relationships.

Portrait by Brian B. Fox