A couple weeks ago I had the pleasure of doing another shoot for the Institute for Justice, this time featuring Vicki Baker. When the photo editor for IJ told me a little bit about Vicki’s story and case, I honestly was in disbelief. It’s truly shocking to hear what she has gone through. And even more unbelievable when you see the printed photographs depicting the destruction of her home.

As a quick summary of her story, Vicki was ready to sell her home in Texas, but right before a new owner was about to close on the property, a fugitive broke into the house with a girl he had taken hostage. He released the girl to safety, but he told police he wouldn’t leave the home alive. The man ended up taking his life in Vicki’s home, and a SWAT team destroyed much of Vicki’s house, knocking down her fence, ripping apart her garage door, blowing out all the windows, and leaving tear gas residue throughout the residence. Needless to say, the new owner legally backed out of the purchase, and Vicki was left to pay for and repair all the damage from the unfortunate incident. You can read more about her story and watch video here.

Vicki has since retired to Montana where I made these portraits of her. It was such a pleasure to meet her, her husband and her dog, and make these images for the Institute for Justice.

On the docket: portraits, weddings, and brand photography – stay tuned!

Cheers,

-Kristine