Pete Souza, a seasoned White House photographer, offers a unique lens through which to view the presidencies of both Ronald Reagan and Barack Obama. “The Way I See It,” a 2020 documentary, delves into Souza’s career, showcasing his intimate access and evolving perspective on the men who held the highest office in the land. Through a combination of archival footage, still photographs, and Souza’s own reflections, the film paints a compelling picture of life inside the White House, capturing both monumental events and quiet moments of humanity.
Souza’s journey began with Reagan, where he learned the ropes of presidential photography, sometimes navigating staged photo opportunities orchestrated by the president’s staff. However, his work truly blossomed during the Obama administration, starting with an assignment to photograph the then-senator at the 2004 Democratic National Convention. This initial encounter marked the beginning of a long-term professional relationship, culminating in Souza’s role as Obama’s official White House photographer. The documentary highlights the evolution of Souza’s understanding of Obama, from an unknown Illinois senator to a history-making president.
The film provides a privileged glimpse into the Obama presidency, revealing Souza’s knack for capturing unguarded moments that embody the essence of the man and his family. From Obama’s first steps into the Oval Office to his emotional farewell, Souza was there to document it all. His photographs become a historical record, immortalizing critical junctures like the raid on Osama bin Laden, the somber aftermath of the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, and the poignant memorial service for the Charleston church shooting victims. Beyond the political sphere, Souza’s lens also captures the intimate dynamics of the Obama family, showcasing the deep bond between Barack and Michelle, as well as their connection with their daughters.
While Souza’s photographs speak volumes, the documentary also allows him to articulate his own perspectives on the two presidents he served. He acknowledges a professional respect for Reagan despite disagreeing with his policies, while his admiration for Obama is palpable, evident not only in his photographs but also in his commentary throughout the film. This admiration extends beyond the personal and professional realms, morphing into a critique of subsequent political developments, particularly the presidency of Donald Trump. Souza’s 2018 book, “Shade: A Tale of Two Presidents,” juxtaposes images of Obama with Trump’s tweets and headlines, offering a stark contrast between the two administrations.
“The Way I See It” doesn’t shy away from exploring Souza’s own political leanings, particularly during the film’s latter segments which feature his book tour for “Shade.” He openly shares his concerns about the political climate at the time of filming, foreshadowing the polarized landscape that would continue to unfold. The documentary’s relevance resonates even stronger in hindsight, given the subsequent return of Donald Trump to the political arena. Souza’s critical stance suggests a potential sequel could further explore his evolving views in light of recent political events.
Ultimately, “The Way I See It” is more than just a collection of photographs or a behind-the-scenes look at the presidency. It’s an exploration of how one individual’s perspective can shape our understanding of history and politics. Souza’s work demonstrates the power of visual storytelling, capturing moments both grand and intimate, leaving the viewer with a deeper appreciation for the complexities of leadership and the human element within the political sphere. His photographs and commentary emphasize the importance of individual interpretation, reminding us that how we “see” events, both political and personal, fundamentally shapes our understanding of the world around us. The documentary invites viewers to consider their own perspectives and how they, too, “see it.”
