Former President Donald Trump’s chief photographer, Shealah Craighead, was asked to hold off on publishing her work in a book, according to a report.
The New York Times reported Craighead notified a Trump aide of her intention to publish a book including her photographs.
The Times explained, “First, aides to Mr. Trump asked her for a cut of her book advance payment, in exchange for his writing a foreword and helping promote the book, according to former associates of Mr. Trump.”
The report continues, “Then Mr. Trump’s team asked Ms. Craighead to hold off on her book project to allow the former president to take Ms. Craighead’s photos and those of other White House staff photographers and publish his own book, which is now selling for as much as $230 a copy.”
According to the Times, it is not rare for White House photographers to publish their own books.
The outlet noted the idea that profits from Craighead’s work are going to Trump upset his former aides.
“Shea’s a very talented photographer and this was really all of her hard work,” Stephanie Grisham, who served as the White House press secretary under Trump, wrote in her book.
She added, “I just keep thinking: What a shame that he is actually now profiting off of it. But then again, this is the guy who is hawking caps and all kinds of stuff right now to raise money for himself.”
Eric Draper, who was the chief White House photographer during Bush’s tenure, shared his thoughts on the matter.
“It’s a slap in the face,” Draper said. “I would be disappointed if I were in her shoes.”
During an interview with the Times, Craighead told the outlet, “I stay apolitical as possible, as I am a neutral historical documentarian.”
She continued, “By staying neutral I am able to remain a keen observer.”
Additionally, the Times pointed out that Trump’s book includes no photo credits.
The photographers who took the photos are not mentioned until the last page.
He briefly offered a “grateful acknowledgment” to “all the phenomenal White House photographers.”
Trump listed the photographers by name, including Craighead, whose pictures are included in the majority of the book.
