Polly Irungu, the celebrated Kenyan-born photographer who once served under President Joe Biden, has started a new chapter in her public service journey. She announced on Thursday, May 1, that she’s now part of Maryland’s Executive Office of the Governor, where she will work as the official photographer for Governor Wes Moore.
“It’s an incredible honour,” she stated, “to keep telling stories that matter and to document the heart of the Moore-Miller administration.”
A Stellar Track Record in the Biden-Harris Administration
Before this appointment, Polly made her mark in Washington, D.C., working as a photographer within the Biden-Harris administration. Between July 2022 and January 2025, she held the position of Official Photo Editor for Vice President Kamala Harris and was also a White House Photographer—a role few ever attain.
Her photos captured powerful moments in U.S. political history, giving a human face to governance and public leadership.
Pushing Boundaries With Black Women Photographers (BWP)
Outside government circles, Polly’s impact has reached global levels through her initiative, Black Women Photographers. Launched in July 2020, the platform has grown into a strong global community with more than 2,100 members across 60+ countries.
Through BWP, she has helped distribute over $185,000 in direct financial support and an extra $60,000 worth of camera gear to aspiring photographers, creating life-changing opportunities for underrepresented talents.
Championing Inclusion Through Storytelling
Polly is not only known for her camera skills but also for using her platform to advocate for equity, representation, and fair opportunities in the visual arts. She’s a familiar face in conferences and creative panels, where she speaks on the creator economy, mentorship, and breaking barriers in the photography industry.
Her passion for empowering others continues to drive her mission—building a more diverse and inclusive creative future.
Background and Education
Polly Irungu is an alumna of the University of Oregon, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism. Her academic background, combined with her real-world experience and leadership, makes her one of the most impactful creative voices of her generation.
