A freelance photojournalist and a Master’s candidate at Ohio University, Sara Lewkowics struck a relationship with a couple (Maggie, 19 and Shane, 31) and their baby (Memphis, 2) in November 2012. At the time, the photographer was working on a project about the stigma associated with being an ex-convict, but an incident of domestic violence unexpectedly became her focus.

 

After a visit to a bar, the couple got into a fight and their yelling escalated into physical violence. Shane attacked Maggie, throwing her into chairs, pushing her up against the wall and choking her in front of her daughter, Memphis, where Lewkowics stood on the side to document it all.

 

While her photography may have ethical implications, it is clear that her intentions were morally sound. The couple knew of her being there and the photographer's intention was to inform the public of domestic violence. The most heartbreaking thing about Lewkowics's images are the children (the other child is not seen in the picture shown here).