Telling New Stories in Coal Country: Photographing Virginia’s Solar Apprenticeship Trailblazers
When Cardinal News reporter Lisa Rowan reached out to me for a special assignment, I was immediately intrigued. The story was focused on a forward-looking regional partnership that is equipping young people in Southwest Virginia with renewable energy job skills—right in the heart of coal country. This initiative, which brings solar apprenticeships to communities historically rooted in coal, is not just about training for new jobs—it's about transforming futures.
👉 Read the full article on Cardinal News here
My role was to produce portraits of the individuals at the heart of this transition—young people, program leaders, and educators who are paving a path toward a brighter, more sustainable future in Appalachia.
Behind the Scenes: Creating Impactful Environmental Portraits
With just a two-week deadline and subjects spread across the rugged, rural stretches of Southwest Virginia, this project came with its logistical challenges. Each drive took 1.5 to 2 hours one way through coal country, and careful coordination was needed to meet everyone and still capture them in authentic, meaningful ways.
Over the course of two days, I met with each subject—taking time to understand their stories, environment, and what this opportunity means to them personally.
Here is a sampling of the portraits I created for the story:
A Shift in the Narrative: From Coal to Clean Energy
The feature from Cardinal News paints a compelling picture of how Southwest Virginia is evolving. Through a partnership between local schools, nonprofits, and energy companies, students are now earning industry certifications and hands-on experience in solar installation.
Why Projects Like This Matter
As a documentary and portrait photographer based in Southwest Virginia, I believe in the power of images to not only inform—but to inspire. This assignment reminded me that photography can serve as both art and advocacy. These are the stories I’m most passionate about telling—the ones rooted in local identity, grit, and hope.
If your publication, organization, or brand is working on a story or project that needs authentic, emotionally resonant visuals, I’d love to help bring it to life.
- Ben Earp
📬 Let’s connect: BenEarpPhotography@gmail.com
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