Portrait of a Trailblazer: Photographing Mayor Barbara Lee

Official portrait of Mayor Barbara Lee, captured at Oakland City Hall. A powerful image honoring her historic leadership and decades of public service in Oakland and beyond.

As a lifelong Oakland resident and photographer, capturing the spirit of my city has always been at the heart of what I do. But few moments have felt as meaningful as the day I was asked to photograph Mayor Barbara Lee—a woman whose leadership has not only shaped Oakland, but has echoed across the nation.

I’ve had the privilege of photographing Oakland’s City Council over the years—many of those portraits now hang on the walls of City Hall. But this time was different. This time, I was documenting history.

Barbara Lee’s legacy is one of bold, principled leadership. She’s best known for being the only member of Congress to vote against the Authorization for Use of Military Force after 9/11—a decision that took immense courage. She’s been a tireless advocate for racial and economic justice, healthcare, LGBTQ+ rights, reproductive freedom, and global peace throughout her decades in public service.

As I set up for the shoot, I couldn’t help but reflect on what this moment meant—not just for me as a photographer, but for Oakland. This is a city that raised me, shaped my creativity, and taught me the value of authenticity. Barbara Lee embodies those same values: courage, truth, and a deep love for community.

Our session was powerful. Mayor Lee exudes the quiet strength of someone who has stood firm through the tides of history and still shows up ready to serve. Her presence was grounded, graceful, and deeply human. The final portrait needed to reflect all of that—and I’m proud to say, it does.

Moments like this are why I do what I do. Photography, for me, is about legacy—about capturing the stories that matter and the people who lead with purpose.

If you’re in a season where your own story needs to be told—whether you’re leading a team, launching a business, or stepping into a new chapter—let’s create a portrait that reflects your power.

📸 Headshots start at just $150 and can be booked online at

👉 www.moodologyphotography.com