Michelle Obama's White House photographer reveals in a new book what being around the former first lady was like
When asked which photo of hers is a personal favorite, Lucidon replied, "It changes each day. But today, my favorite photo is the image of Mrs. Obama on the Great Wall of China with her daughters. It reminds me that even though she maintains such a serious and important role, being a good mother is her most important priority. As a new mother, I really admire her values."
"I changed both as a person and as a photographer. It would be impossible to stay the same when I was constantly surrounded by inspiration," Lucidon said of her four years on the job.
This photo, which is now one of Lucidon's most well-known, almost didn't make the cut. "At first, this shot felt more like an 'almost' for me because it was so cluttered ... Luckily, Al Anderson, our wonderful White House photo editor, convinced me that it was great despite its composition," she wrote in her book.
During her time at the White House, Lucidon also documented the work of the National Park groundskeepers, and it was turned into a multimedia piece featured online. "Many of the gardeners have been there for more than 25 years," she said.
Lucidon also traveled with Michelle and staff from the West and East Wings. "They were extremely hard-working, talented and dedicated to something bigger than themselves," she said of the staff.
"Each day I was amazed that the gates of the White House were open for me. I had the opportunity to work in a living, breathing museum and admire its history and art, as well as spend time with those who preserved and protected it," she said.
In her book, Lucidon describes feeling "shell shock" upon meeting the first lady. "It was quick, I have no idea what I said, and I could hardly see because I was smiling so big," Lucidon wrote.
"Before working at the White House, I had spent most of my career documenting stories that focused on civil rights and discrimination issues. As a documentarian, I recognized the importance and responsibility of photographing our first African American First Family. For me, it transcended politics. I had the honor to witness and document history," Lucidon said to Business Insider.
It was White House photographer Pete Souza who called Lucidon, asking if she was interested in the job.
