WASHINGTON, DC — Visitors from Iowa and all over the world to Iowa Congressman Tom Latham’s Washington office will now enjoy a window into Iowa’s beautiful farms, neighborhoods and communities.

Congressman Latham discovered the work of photographer Joseph L. Murphy while seeking out Iowa photos to display in his office. Eight of Murphy’s photographs now displayed in Latham’s office feature a broad range of Iowa landscapes and settings. Latham has previously displayed the work of Iowa painters in his office.

“It’s wonderful to have a photographic reminder for me and visitors to my office of the vibrant change of seasons in Iowa and of the state’s rich agricultural landscapes,” said Latham. “Almost every visitor to the office has expressed their appreciation and admiration for these images that are constant reminders of Iowa’s natural beauty.”

Murphy, who lives in Van Meter, said his love for photography began as child taking photos with his father in northern Iowa.

“The photos I've taken while working at the Iowa Farm Bureau depict the diverse landscapes and beauty that can be found across Iowa. Whether it’s the hard working citizens of Iowa, the green landscape in the summer, the autumn harvest, or its vibrant communities, Iowa has provided a perfect backdrop for my photos,” said Murphy. “I want people who walk into Congressman Latham’s office to see the many faces of Iowans, the many opportunities Iowa has to offer and the beautiful landscape Iowa has been blessed with.”

After receiving his degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of Iowa, Murphy worked as a photo editor and staff photographer for The Daily Iowan in Iowa City. With his first job under his belt after college, he later served in several photography and communications positions at various publications including The Press Citizen in Iowa City, The Britt News Tribune, and The Clinton Herald.

Murphy, a Forest City native, works as a photographer and writer with the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation. In this position, he is responsible for the photography assignments of the weekly Iowa Farm Bureau Spokesman, the monthly Family Living, marketing photos as well as the Web site iowafarmbureau.com. He also writes news and feature stories, provides creative input, and publication pagination.

Murphy, 36, has received numerous awards for his work including: Society of Professional Journalists Mark of Excellence Award, J.Y. Bryan Prize in the field of interpretive photography, two IABC Bronze Quill Awards of excellence for color photography and illustrations and two American Farm Bureau best single photo awards. His work has been featured in National Geographic Television, Time, Chicago Sun-Times, Atlanta Journal Constitution, United Press International, Associated Press, Liaison, Chronicle of Higher Education and The Des Moines Register.
 

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