Katie Lenhart
What’s the scope of your job?
I shoot photos and stories for the communications office, performances on campus, new faculty portraits, projects for the president’s office. I also like to just walk around to find those little moments that are happening across Dartmouth every day.
What makes a portrait great?
I like shooting with natural light. When you work indoors with a window, that’s dramatic. For indoor portraiture, Rauner is gorgeous.
What’s your favorite place on campus to take pictures?
Sanborn. It’s wonderful to be surrounded by the old architecture and by students doing their work. I feel like I’ve gone back to England in the 1600s when I’m there.
What’s your least favorite assignment?
Shooting the flag at half-mast when someone passes away. It’s a sad moment.
Got any tips for taking photos?
Think about the architecture of your shot and how you’re placing your subject in the world around them. Allow the geography and the architecture to influence how you’re lining the person up and the patterns you’re creating.
Do you face any occupational hazards?
I do a lot of running backwards. I have fallen so many times.
How do you prepare for the Homecoming bonfire?
I tuck all my hair under my clothes and put a hat on. We’re in that most inner circle, and you can feel parts of your backpack melting if you get too close.
What’s the most challenging aspect of your work?
Being 5-foot-2. I spend a lot of time in heeled shoes.
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