This is how I look at the world
Stories shaped by lived experience, told through photography and writing..
Telling the stories of those who might otherwise go unheard.
With over 20 years as a professional photographer, I began my career in Los Angeles, working with people from all walks of life and learning to read presence, energy, and what lies beneath the surface. My work has been published nationally and internationally, shaping how I tell stories.
In 2020, I made a life shift—selling my home and most of what I owned to follow a more intentional path. That journey led me to South Africa, where documenting community programs deepened my understanding of people’s lived realities.
Since 2023, my work has been rooted in Guaymas, Mexico. I support the Franciscan mission through photography and writing, and serve on the Board of Directors for Casa Franciscana Outreach, helping guide fundraising efforts.
The stories I tell come directly from the people themselves—shared in their own words and shaped with care to remain true to their experience.
I no longer pursue photography as a profession, but the work continues—focused on connection and telling honest, human stories.
FIELD-BASED HUMANITARIAN STORYTELLER
Rick Rusch documents communities, faith, and lived experience through photography and narrative.
I work from a documentary practice grounded in the field. Stories grow from time spent with communities, listening, observing, and returning so what is shown reflects lived experience, not staging.
From the neighborhoods of Guaymas, Mexico, to the communities of Ocean View and Masiphumelele in South Africa, to ministries and humanitarian programs in the U.S., I document the real lives behind the work of service. I listen first, photograph second, and build stories that help donors feel connected to the people and missions they support.
Left: Children receive a pair of school shoes through the Casa Franciscana Outreach Mission in Guaymas, Sonora, Mexico.
Mayo Community, Sonora, Mexico
Documentary Storytelling
— Photography & Writing
Field-Based Documentary Practice
Long-Term Community Engagement
Featured Collection
Check out my featured photoshoot showcasing my work!
MENSHO Restaurant
Look at the art of crafting a signature ramen dish and discover the intricate details that make it truly special.
PHOTOGRAPHY PORTFOLIO
MY EARLIER WORK AS A PHOTOGRAPHER
Domestic and International Travel
Eclair Magazine, Paris-New York-Los Angeles
“His passion is to simply inspire an emotion and to direct your eyes and hearts to look at life through a fresh perspective and to see the beauty of life.”
www.ecalir-magazine.com March issue 2022 No116
About
I work with photography and writing to tell human-centered stories shaped by lived experience. My background spans education, service, and long-term engagement with people and place.
The work shown here reflects a growing focus on humanitarian and community-centered storytelling, while remaining grounded in editorial and communications practice.
A concise overview of my professional background and experience is available on my “About” page.