Behind the Lens: A Photographer’s Journey Through Jimmy Carter’s Presidency in the DC Area

WASHINGTON (7News) — Photographer Ron Baker spent his mid to late twenties mingling with a group of America’s most distinguished individuals. His striking photographs of stars like Michael Jackson and iconic promoter Don King launched his career into a realm where he frequently interacted with pop icons and politicians.

While employed by Johnson Publishing during the 1970s, which managed Jet & Ebony Magazines, Baker captured numerous occasions where he met former President Jimmy Carter and First Lady Rosalynn Carter.

“The individual I encountered was an authentic person, no pretenses,” Baker remarked from his residence in Prince George’s County. “That’s what I appreciated most about him and his spouse. They were genuine.”

Baker displayed with pride an invitation he recently discovered from his home archives. The invitation was from the President and First Lady who hosted a gospel jubilee on the White House lawn in September of 1979.

“Gospel icon Shirley Caesar. She performed at that specific event. And that was quite a significant occasion for 1979,” Baker mentioned. “He (Carter) was raised among many African Americans in the South. Therefore, his appreciation for diversity stemmed from a life lived. When he assumed the presidency, it’s remarkable how he remained unchanged.”

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His photographs from that occasion depict a relaxed President Carter, wearing a short-sleeved collared shirt and slacks, seated on the White House lawn atop a blanket with Rosalynn beside him.

“He seemed so at ease,” Baker reflected on the images he took of Carter during that event. “I mean, just look at his expression. He was truly in his element.”

A few years earlier, in 1977, Baker’s initial assignment was to document the first day of the Carter Administration. He captured images of the last presidential inauguration held on the east side of the Capitol Building and took pictures of the First Family during the inaugural parade. To achieve the perfect shot, Baker precariously climbed the rails of the Washington Hotel, hanging above a thirty-foot drop.

“I actually snapped that picture with my right hand while gripping for dear life with my left hand,” Baker stated. “That’s one of my favorites because everyone was looking in my direction.”

Baker fondly remembered an event in 1978 where the President participated in a Congressional Black Caucus Dinner to honor Rosa Parks.

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“To my knowledge, he was the first president to ever attend a Congressional Black Caucus dinner, and in doing so, he initiated the tradition for presidents,” Baker explained. “It was remarkable to have the President and First Lady alongside the mother of civil rights; that was quite an accomplishment.”

Baker also photographed President Carter in the Oval Office during an event honoring Hall of Fame St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Lou Brock.

“Having a president gaze directly into your camera is quite special, especially in the Oval Office,” Baker noted. “(Brock) was presenting the President with his cleats, as he held the stolen base record at that time. And he had a small miniature glove, which was amusing, as it was indeed a tiny glove, showcasing the smile on President Carter’s face.”

Baker reflects on Carter’s four years in office with great respect. He remembers him as both a president and a peanut farmer; the same individual in a farmhouse as he was in the White House.

“President Carter was truly an exceptional individual. He had a tremendous vision and was dedicated to many who supported him,” Baker commented. “I found him to be a person you could approach. I actually had the opportunity to shake his hand during the event in the Oval Office. And, I mean, he wouldn’t have known me from anyone. Yet it was wonderful because this man shook my hand. Who am I?”