Caught in the Drift
of pesticides, wildfire and change
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

Accepting limited NorCal assignments that observe pandemic protocols
Copyright 2013-2021 Joan Cusick Photography