Top 20 Photos of 2024: VTDigger Photographers Reflect on Their Favorites
As 2024 comes to a close, VTDigger photographers Glenn Russell and Natalie Williams took a moment to reflect on the impactful moments they captured throughout the year in Vermont. From natural disasters to political events, these photographers were there to document it all. Let’s dive into some of their favorite images and the stories behind them.
Deputy Sheriff in Action
Glenn Russell captured a powerful moment when a Deputy Sheriff ordered a motorist not to cross under live power lines on Pleasant Valley Road in Underhill on January 10, 2024. The driver’s recklessness was met with intense confrontation from the officer, highlighting the dangers of the situation. Glenn’s quick thinking and technical skills resulted in a striking image that perfectly captured the tension of the moment.
Legislative Drama
Natalie Williams found herself in the midst of legislative drama when lawmakers gathered around the podium at the House chamber to discuss the election results for sergeant-at-arms on March 1, 2024. The chaotic scene unfolding before her eyes resembled something out of a Renaissance painting, showcasing the historical significance of the event. Natalie’s keen eye for detail and composition brought this moment to life in a captivating photograph.
Courtroom Intrigue
Glenn Russell’s photo of Jason Eaton being unshackled by a deputy sheriff in Chittenden Superior criminal court on March 8, 2024, added a layer of texture to the coverage of a high-profile case. The image, while not showing Eaton’s face, hinted at the gravity of the situation and the legal proceedings unfolding in the courtroom. Glenn’s technical expertise and storytelling ability shone through in this compelling shot.
Celestial Spectacle
During the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, freelance photographer Jeb Wallace-Brodeur captured a mesmerizing moment at the State House in Montpelier. The image of eclipse viewers during totality not only showcased the rare celestial event but also highlighted the communal experience of witnessing such a phenomenon. Jeb’s photo transported viewers to the Statehouse lawn, where people gathered in awe of the natural spectacle above.
Amphibian Adventure
In a lighthearted yet educational moment, Natalie Williams photographed a spring salamander moving through a shallow body of water in Middlesex on April 12, 2024. Joining intern Juan Vega de Soto on a rainy spring night to witness residents rescuing salamanders, Natalie captured the joy and wonder of this unique experience. The image of the rare spring salamander brought a touch of nature’s beauty to VTDigger’s photography collection.
Protest Perspective
Glenn Russell’s photo of a University of Vermont student speaking at a Palestinian solidarity rally in Burlington on April 29, 2024, delved into the intersection of information and aesthetics. The image captured the complexity of the protest demands and the intensity of the moment, reflecting the ongoing societal conversations taking place. Glenn’s thoughtful approach to composition and lighting highlighted the gravity of the situation.
House Chamber Moments
During a break on the floor of the House at the Statehouse in Montpelier on May 8, 2024, Glenn Russell captured a candid interaction between Rep. Martin Lalonde and Rep. Larry Satkowitz. The photo, taken from the public gallery due to media restrictions, showcased a behind-the-scenes moment of legislative proceedings. Glenn’s ability to find compelling visuals in challenging environments added depth to VTDigger’s coverage.
Farmer’s Tale
Glenn Russell’s photo of farmer Eugene Ethier discussing his land use practices in Cornwall on May 16, 2024, highlighted the human stories behind environmental efforts. Eugene’s character and dedication to creating a diverse ecosystem shone through in the image, adding a personal touch to the larger narrative. Glenn’s skill in capturing human connection and emotion brought this farmer’s story to life.
Flood Aftermath
In a heartbreaking moment, Glenn Russell photographed Nancy Morin at her flood-ravaged home in Barre on June 20, 2024. Forced to abandon her house due to flooding from the Winooski River, Nancy’s story of loss and resilience was captured in a single frame. Glenn’s ability to convey the emotional impact of natural disasters through photography added a humanizing element to VTDigger’s coverage.
Community Resilience
Josh Kuckens’ photo of motorists and pedestrians navigating high water in Hardwick on July 11, 2024, highlighted the resilience of Vermonters in the face of adversity. The image captured the harrowing conditions brought about by flooding in Caledonia County, showcasing the community’s response to the disaster. Josh’s eye for detail and composition painted a vivid picture of the challenges faced by residents during the floods.
Devastating Impact
Glenn Russell’s photo of the remains of an apartment building that collapsed into the Winooski River in Plainfield on July 11, 2024, showcased the devastating impact of the floods. The image of destruction and loss served as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the fragility of human structures. Glenn’s ability to capture the aftermath of a disaster with sensitivity and clarity was evident in this haunting photograph.
Terrifying Moment
Jeb Wallace-Brodeur’s photo of a vehicle snarled in flood debris in Lyndon on July 31, 2024, captured a terrifying moment of nature’s wrath. The image of a red car caught in the midst of destruction illustrated the sheer force of the floods and the chaos they brought. Jeb’s skill in documenting the raw power of the elements added a sense of urgency to VTDigger’s coverage of the natural disaster.
Political Response
Glenn Russell’s photo of Sen. Peter Welch and Admiral Rachel Levine touring flood damage in Lyndonville on August 5, 2024, offered a unique perspective on the government’s response to the crisis. The image of someone struggling with an umbrella as rain began to fall served as a metaphor for the challenges faced by communities in the aftermath of the floods. Glenn’s ability to capture symbolic moments added depth to VTDigger’s coverage of the disaster.
Community Connection
Glenn Russell’s photo of Shela Estella and Niyukuri Hussein at a knitting group meeting for New Americans in Winooski on September 12, 2024, highlighted the power of relationships and shared experiences. The image of the two women engrossed in conversation showcased the sense of community and camaraderie fostered by the group. Glenn’s ability to capture genuine moments of connection added a human touch to VTDigger’s coverage.
Acts of Kindness
Glenn Russell’s photo of Terri Garrett, her granddaughter Sarah Wells, and their host in Barre on September 24, 2024, documented a heartwarming act of kindness in the face of homelessness. The image of a family living with a stranger who opened their home showcased the resilience and compassion of Vermonters. Glenn’s ability to capture intimate moments of vulnerability added a poignant element to VTDigger’s storytelling.
Political Turmoil
Glenn Russell’s photo of people following election results at a Democratic Party gathering in South Burlington on November 5, 2024, captured the intensity and emotion of a pivotal moment in Vermont politics. The image of dwindling crowds and somber faces reflected the gravity of the election outcome. Glenn’s ability to convey the tension and uncertainty of the moment through photography added depth to VTDigger’s political coverage.
Emotional Reaction
Glenn Russell’s photo of Sen. Alison Clarkson receiving a standing ovation after a caucus meeting in Montpelier on November 16, 2024, showcased a moment of personal loss in a public setting. The image of Sen. Clarkson’s emotional reaction to defeat highlighted the human side of politics and the impact of decisions on individuals. Glenn’s ability to capture raw emotion and vulnerability added a personal touch to VTDigger’s political reporting.
Memorial Moment
Glenn Russell’s photo of Lia Mari Menard at a vigil in Montpelier on November 30, 2024, documented a poignant moment of remembrance and grief. The image of Lia honoring her brother and his wife, who passed away as unhoused individuals, captured the emotional weight of loss and injustice. Glenn’s ability to navigate sensitive subjects with empathy and respect added a powerful layer to VTDigger’s storytelling.
Behind-the-Scenes
Natalie Williams’ photo of drag queen Lavender Homicide preparing for a photoshoot in Bethel on December 7, 2024, offered a glimpse behind the scenes of a performance art. The image of Lavender applying lashes in front of a “Rocky Horror Picture Show” poster set the stage for the aesthetic and energy of the upcoming show. Natalie’s ability to capture the essence of a moment added a dynamic element to VTDigger’s coverage.
Victorious Moment
Glenn Russell’s photo of UVM fans celebrating the men’s soccer team’s national championship win in Burlington on December 16, 2024, captured a moment of pure joy and triumph. The image of anticipation as the winning goal was about to be scored showcased the intensity and excitement of the game. Glenn’s ability to freeze a decisive moment in time added a sense of dynamism to VTDigger’s sports coverage.
Closing Thoughts
As 2024 draws to a close, the photos captured by VTDigger photographers serve as a visual diary of the events, emotions, and stories that defined the year in Vermont. From natural disasters to political upheavals, these images offer a glimpse into the resilience, compassion, and diversity of the community. Through their lens, photographers like Glenn Russell and Natalie Williams have brought these moments to life, creating a powerful narrative of the human experience in Vermont.
