Maine Trust for Local News photographers select some of their favorite images from Jan. 1-8, 2026.
Russ Dillingham
Staff Photographer
A lifelong resident of Lewiston, Russ stumbled into photography as a college student working toward a career in psychology. His great-grandfather Louis B. Costello was the publisher of the Lewiston Daily Sun and Evening Journal and his grandfather, who Russ is named after, was a staff photographer before becoming publisher. Russ planned to move to a big city to live and work until a light came on while he was in the darkroom. During summer breaks he worked in the press and composing rooms at the Sun Journal and between his junior and senior year landed a job as a darkroom technician in the photography department where he developed an interest in taking photos. He immediately demonstrated a creative eye and a knack for being in the right place at the right time. When the Sun Journal launched a Sunday edition, he was offered a job that began his 35 year career. He lives in Lewiston, where he and his wife raised four boys. His innate curiosity and love of new technology has kept his passion burning. From using 360-degree cameras to becoming a licensed drone pilot he is always eager to try something new. After three decades of doing the same job he still is excited to come to work every day and is always seeking new challenges and adventures.
Lewiston buildings going up and coming down
Photographer Russ Dillingham shares aerial views of 2 construction and demolition projects in the city.
Stuck in the snow
Wednesday’s slippery weather had Lewiston motorist pushing through snow.
Lisbon’s ‘big hill’ offers family fun
Siblings make some runs Tuesday afternoon.
Auburn agility course to challenge prospective firefighters
Candidates must conquer an obstacle course to be considered for a job with the department.
Mystery Photo for Jan. 4, 2026
Correctly guess where this photo was taken and you could win a $25 Hannaford Supermarket gift card.
Sabattus Pond draws ice fishing Thursday
Anglers try their luck in Sabattus on the first day of 2026. Photographs by Staff Photographer Russ Dillingham.
How snow is made at Auburn ski area
Staff Photographer Russ Dillingham follows young snowmakers at Lost Valley Ski Area as they churn out the manmade white powder.
Mystery Photo for Dec. 21, 2025
Correctly guess where this photo was taken and you could win a $25 Hannaford Supermarket gift card.
Rallies, high school sports, greenhouse gardening in Lisbon Falls, Lewiston area shown in week in photos
Sun Journal photographers select some of their favorite images from December 12-18, 2025.