In today’s episode, W. Scott Olsen speaks with Paul Mobley, an American portrait photographer known for both commercial work and documentary projects, including the books American Farmer, Everyday Heroes, and American Firefighter.
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Paul Mobley is an American portrait photographer whose career bridges high-profile commercial work and deeply human documentary projects. After formal training in photography and years assisting top image-makers, he developed a clean, direct style rooted in precision and genuine engagement with his subjects. His commercial portfolio includes celebrities, athletes, and major brands, yet his approach remains consistent: build trust, find authenticity, and create portraits that reveal character rather than simply capturing appearance.
Mobley is widely recognized for his long-form documentary books, including American Farmer, Everyday Heroes, American Firefighter, and If I Live to Be 100. These projects took him across the United States, photographing ordinary people whose stories often go unseen—farmers, centenarians, firefighters, and community heroes. His portraits combine technical clarity with emotional depth, presenting Americans with dignity and presence. Through this work, Mobley has become known for elevating everyday lives into lasting visual narratives.
PAUL MOBLEY
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