From the small town of Mt. Olivet, Kentucky, photojournalist Michael Swensen has quickly become a prominent name in national news coverage. His work, often featured by major outlets like The Associated Press and The Washington Post, demonstrates how talent and a strong work ethic can lead to significant assignments, even from a rural base.
Key Takeaways
- Michael Swensen, based in tiny Mt. Olivet, Kentucky, earns top photojournalism assignments.
- His work has appeared in TIME's 'Top 100 Photos' for 2023 and 2025.
- Swensen is a recipient of the prestigious Hearst Journalism Awards.
- His rural location in Kentucky offers strategic access to Midwestern cities.
- He emphasizes continuous learning and community support for aspiring photojournalists.
A Rapid Rise in Photojournalism
Michael Swensen, a relative newcomer to the professional photojournalism scene, has swiftly established himself. Just four years after graduating from college, his images are regularly seen across national and international platforms. He was the 2020 photojournalism champion in the highly regarded Hearst Journalism Awards, a testament to his early talent.
Swensen’s photographs have garnered significant recognition. TIME magazine included his image of Kentucky tornado damage in its 'Top 100 Photos of 2025'. An earlier photo, capturing Donald Trump's visit to East Palestine, Ohio, after a train derailment, was featured in TIME's 'Top 100 Photos of 2023'. These accolades highlight his ability to capture compelling moments during critical events.
Did You Know?
Mt. Olivet, Kentucky, Swensen's home base, is located in the smallest county in Kentucky. Population estimates for the hamlet vary, with some figures as low as 155 residents in 2023.
A Family Legacy in Photography
Swensen's passion for photography runs in his family. His father, Jeff Swensen, is an independent photographer based in Pittsburgh, known for his work with leading news outlets. Both father and son honed their skills at Ohio University's School of Visual Communication, a program renowned for its photojournalism curriculum.
This shared background provided Michael with a strong foundation. The elder Swensen's work also receives national attention. Last December, PetaPixel highlighted Jeff Swensen’s striking photographs of severe winter storms, showcasing the family's consistent output of high-quality journalistic images. This familial connection underscores a deep understanding of the craft and the demands of news photography.
“This is what I signed up for,” Michael Swensen remarked, referring to the demanding schedule of back-to-back assignments and extensive road travel.
The Demands of the Job: Work Ethic and Travel
The life of a photojournalist often involves quick responses and long hours. Swensen exemplifies this dedication. When a UPS cargo plane crashed in Louisville, Getty Images contacted him. He rose at 5 AM on November 5, drove 85 miles to the site, and did not return home until after 10 PM that night. Just three days later, on November 8, he was in Lexington covering a Kentucky vs. Florida football game for The Associated Press.
His willingness to travel long distances for assignments is a key factor in his success. Swensen’s central location in Kentucky allows him to reach a handful of Midwestern cities within a five-hour drive. This strategic positioning makes him an accessible resource for national news organizations needing coverage across the region.
Rural Appeal, Strategic Access
While Mt. Olivet is rural, its location is ideal for a freelance photojournalist. Major highways criss-cross the region, connecting to distribution centers and major cities. This allows Swensen to be out of the way but always within reach of key assignments.
Leveraging a Rural Base for National Reach
Swensen consciously chose to make rural Kentucky his home after graduating college. Mt. Olivet is about 22 miles from Cynthiana, Kentucky, where he previously spent three months photographing Harrison County as a grant recipient of Boyd’s Station. This nonprofit arts and journalism residency program offers a supportive community for artists.
“I knew that living out in a rural area would have its challenges,” Swensen explained. “But I was willing to take a risk to be in rural Kentucky, a place I love dearly. I also knew that Kentucky might be a good place to establish myself as a freelancer because it’s centrally located.” This foresight has paid off, allowing him to cover diverse stories across state lines.
He has photographed Cincinnati Reds home games for The Associated Press, a city located 60 miles north of Mt. Olivet. The Washington Post has also dispatched him for various stories, including an in-depth piece on political reactions to billionaires in Brookville, Indiana, a two-hour drive from his residence. Another Post assignment took him 90 minutes away to Nicholasville, Kentucky, to document a horse farm aiding recovering addicts.
Key Collaborations
- The Associated Press
- Getty Images
- The Washington Post
- TIME Magazine
Advice for Aspiring Photojournalists
Swensen freely shares his insights with others hoping to enter the field. He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and preparation. His advice includes consistently reviewing other photographers' work, staying informed about current events, and always having camera equipment ready for immediate deployment.
He also stresses the value of a strong support network. “Surround yourself with a creative and supportive community,” he advises. Jack Gruber, a Senior Photographer for USA Today and co-founder of Boyd’s Station, attests to Swensen’s reputation. “Michael Swensen has become a go-to photographer for national news organizations and wire services seeking a trusted photojournalist, one who understands the region, earns the confidence of its people, and consistently delivers exceptional work.”
Looking Ahead: Documenting Rural Life
Beyond his breaking news assignments, Swensen is dedicated to a long-term personal project. He is currently photographing older men in rural Kentucky who gather regularly for coffee. This initiative aims to document how such social interactions combat isolation and depression, issues that can affect men after retirement.
This project aligns with broader national concerns. On December 18, The Associated Press published an in-depth article about small groups working to counter historic levels of social isolation. The report featured Swensen’s photographs from rural Henry County and Robertson County, Kentucky, showcasing his commitment to telling local stories with national relevance.