Sun Journal photographers select some of their favorite images Jan. 23-29, 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.
Mystery Photo for Jan. 25, 2026
Correctly guess where this photo was taken and you could win a $25 Hannaford Supermarket gift card.
MLK Jr. Day, Dinosaur workshop, Homeland Security, high school sports in Lewiston focus of Week in Photos
Sun Journal photographers select some of their favorite images from Jan. 16-22, 2026.
In Lewiston, historic loom is moved from one mill to another
A Jacquard loom was brought from the Bates Mill Complex to the Museum of Innovation Learning and Labor’s future location next to Simard-Payne park.
Lewiston library roars with delight at dinosaur workshop
Kids played with replica teeth and bones, and more, at Saturday’s Mad Science program at the Lewiston Public Library. Staff photos by Russ Dillingham
Mystery Photo for Jan. 18, 2026
Correctly guess where this photo was taken and you could win a $25 Hannaford Supermarket gift card.
Lewiston listening event, sports, Mr. Drew and weather too focus of area week in photos
Sun Journal photographers select some of their favorite images from Jan. 9-15, 2026.
Mr. Drew and His Animals Too moves into Poland location
A well-known Lewiston business has relocated to Poland, with a grand reopening scheduled for this weekend.
Snow, wrestling, hockey, Pledge of Allegiance focus of Lewiston-area Week in Photos
Maine Trust for Local News photographers select some of their favorite images from Jan. 1-8, 2026.
Lewiston buildings going up and coming down
Photographer Russ Dillingham shares aerial views of 2 construction and demolition projects in the city.