A Look Back on Tony Overmans Prolific Photojournalism Career As He Looks Ahead to Retirement

After a remarkable four-decade career, photojournalist Tony Overman prepares for retirement, having captured the essence of life in the Pacific Northwest. Overman began his career with various Oregon publications before joining The Olympian, where he covered significant sporting events and a military deployment in Iraq. His experiences taught him the value of preparation and connection, often allowing him to follow subjects for months or years. Among his notable stories are the conjoined twins, Charity and Kathleen Lincoln, and boxer Eloy Perez, whose life journey included both triumph and tragedy. Overman's focus on community engagement through photography has earned him heartfelt gratitude from residents, particularly for covering local events such as Olympia's Pet Parade.

He reflects on the importance of building rapport with his subjects, creating a unique narrative style. One of his favorite photographs depicts elk being relocated, showcasing his diverse range of subjects. As he steps into retirement, Overman's legacy highlights the profound impact of photojournalism on local storytelling.