Capturing Stories in Action - A Year Embedded with EOD Units

From Fieldwork to Storytelling: How My Journey Began

Being embedded with U.S. Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) units was more than just an assignment, it was a unique opportunity to document incredible stories of service and collaboration. By the time I joined their ranks as a storyteller, I had formal training in journalism, marketing, and public relations, coupled with experience mobilizing for various first responder operations. These skills prepared me for a year of high-tempo, meaningful work that shaped my professional approach today.

The High-Stakes World of EOD: Documenting Precision and Purpose

Some EOD units, like the one I was with, operate at a fast pace, responding to urgent calls to safeguard communities from dangerous ordnance. My role wasn’t just to capture visuals but to tell a broader story. I documented their expert technical skills, the collaboration between multinational coalitions and nonprofits, and the human connections that brought purpose to their work. Every image I took required sensitivity and respect for the mission, ensuring operational security while emphasizing the impact these teams had on communities.

Agility in Action: Photography in Dynamic Environments

Working alongside EOD teams required agility and focus. While carrying a full array of photography and video equipment, I worked in unpredictable and challenging environments. The ability to quickly adapt and produce high-quality content —whether press releases, B-roll packages, or reports — was critical. Often, I delivered polished stories within hours of returning from an EOD mission, providing timely communication for stakeholders and the communities we served.

Lessons That Shaped My Craft (And Still Do Today)

This experience sharpened my ability to deliver under pressure. It taught me how to navigate complex environments, interact thoughtfully with subjects, and create visuals that inspire action. These lessons remain integral to my work today, whether I’m photographing a local fire department, crafting marketing campaigns, or documenting community events.

Serving North Texas: Capturing Stories That Matter

As a Fort Worth native, I have a deep connection to first responders — friends and family who dedicate their lives to keeping our communities safe. Capturing their stories is more than just a job; it’s a way to honor their service. Whether documenting training exercises, operations, or events, I approach each project with the same care and dedication I learned while working with EOD teams.

Let’s Tell Your Story Together

If your organization, whether a fire department, police unit, or other first responder group, needs professional photography or video that truly highlights your mission, I’d love to help. Together, we can create visuals that showcase your commitment to serving the community. Let’s connect today.