Two years around the sun

Brock Hansen plants soybeans into a field with covercrops in 2021. This was one of the first photos I captured during my time with the United Soybean Board.

It's hard to believe that it's been two years since I started working as a contract photographer and writer for the United Soybean Board (USB). In that time, I've had the opportunity to travel all over the Midwest and meet some of the country's most hardworking and dedicated farmers.

My boots and cameras have been in all sorts of conditions, from the rich black soil of Iowa to grain terminals in Louisiana and fishing villages along the Siem Reap River in Cambodia.

But most importantly, I've met some amazing people who are passionate about their work and committed to growing a sustainable crop. I've learned a lot about soybeans and the people who grow them, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share their stories with the world.

Here are a few of my favorite memories from my time documenting USB:

• Discovering Mississippi’s agriculture and blues music heritage while driving across the Delta.

• Telling the story of tempeh, made with U.S. Soy, and how important it is to the culture of Indonesia.

• Capturing numerous sunsets and sunrises with farmer leaders across the country.

• Making new friends along the way – especially the small-town coffee shop owners, farm hands and tour guides.

• Improving my photography and communication skills by working with peers that push me to be my best.

Here are a few of my favorite stories that I worked on during my time with USB:

• Soy Checkoff Delivers Results on International Stage

• Your soybean checkoff dollars change Cambodian lives

• From Bins to Barges, Delivering Soy Around the World

• Nothing Fishy Here: U.S. Soy Protein Feeds Aquaculture, Grows Demand

• Shooting for the Sky: U.S. Soy Poised to Feed Chinese Swine Herds

I'm excited to continue working with USB and sharing the stories of soybean farmers. I believe U.S. soybeans are an integral part of our food system, and I'm proud to be a part of the team working to promote them.

Thank you to all of the soybean farmers who have welcomed me into your homes and fields. I've learned so much from you and am grateful for your friendship.