Polly Irungu, a celebrated Kenyan-born photographer who previously served in the Biden-Harris administration, has embarked on a new role in the United States.
In a post on her official X (formerly Twitter) account, Irungu announced her appointment as the official photographer for Maryland Governor Wes Moore.
“I’m excited to share that I’ve joined Maryland’s Executive Office of the Governor as a Photographer for Governor Wes Moore!” she wrote.
“It is an incredible honor to continue my journey in public service, documenting the people, moments, and stories that shape the Moore-Miller Admin,” she added.
??: I’m excited to share that I’ve joined Maryland’s Executive Office of the Governor as a Photographer for Governor Wes Moore!
It is an incredible honor to continue my journey in public service, documenting the people, moments, and stories that shape the Moore-Miller Admin. pic.twitter.com/ltbwhrKzuB
— Polly Irungu (@pollyirungu) April 30, 2025
Her announcement was met with an outpouring of love and support from Kenyans and members of the global creative community.
“Congratulations Polly!!! I love this for you. Btw! Thank you for all you do for us black women,” said @HoneyCaramelTee.
Another follower wrote, “Exciting news! Congratulations, Polly. I wish you the best in this new chapter.”
Irungu is a Washington, D.C.-based photographer, photo editor, and the visionary founder of Black Women Photographers (BWP), a groundbreaking platform amplifying the work of Black and African women creatives.
Since its inception in July 2020, BWP has grown into a global community and directory with over 2,100 members across more than 60 countries.
Through this initiative, Irungu has facilitated over $185,000 in financial grants and provided an additional $60,000 in camera equipment to support photographers in building sustainable careers.
Before her current role, Irungu served as the official photo editor for Vice President Kamala Harris and was a photographer in the Biden-Harris administration from July 2022 until January 2025.
She was the first person to hold the position in the Office of the Vice President.
Beyond photography, Irungu is a sought-after speaker, regularly engaging in conversations around the creator economy, equitable representation, and professional development in the creative industry.
Her work has been featured in publications such as The New York Times, Reuters, Global Citizen, BBC News, MEFeater, Refinery29, The Washington Post, BuzzFeed, and CNN.
Irungu holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of Oregon.