Behind the Lens: Photographing Author Doug White
I recently had the privilege of photographing Doug White—a military veteran, retired police officer, and now an author whose work focuses on trauma and resilience. Our goal was to capture not just his image, but the essence of his powerful story. From the start, I knew this session would be unlike any other.
Before the shoot, I asked Doug if he had any props that might help visually convey his message. At first, he was hesitant and thought he had nothing to bring. But as we dug deeper into the heart of his book—his journey through trauma, his fight with mental health challenges, and the ultimate road to healing—Doug realized there were items that held deep meaning for him.
He ended up bringing several of his firearms, including the handgun he once contemplated using to end his life. That weapon symbolizes a turning point: the darkest moment when he almost gave up, yet chose to continue living. In many ways, it’s also what sparked his healing journey and inspired him to write this book, sharing his experiences to help others who might be in a similar struggle.
During the shoot, Doug also introduced me to a “wobbie” blanket. Common in the military, this comforting piece of fabric often accompanies soldiers through deployments and hardships, offering a sense of security and familiarity. We incorporated the wobbie blanket into several shots, placing it beneath everything as a subtle, grounding element. Its presence underscores the comfort, warmth, and resilience Doug aims to convey in his writing.
The resulting images reflect Doug’s raw honesty and the strength it took to confront his past head-on. Shooting these photos was both intense and inspiring—I found myself moved by the courage it took for Doug to share his story so openly.
I’m excited to share a few of my favorite shots below. For those interested in learning more about Doug and his book, visit his official website at DougWhiteOfficial.com. And if you’re looking for a photographer who can help you tell your story—no matter how difficult or inspiring—I’m here to help you capture it through my lens.
