Monte Draper likely spent more time at Bemidji State University events than any faculty member, coach, administrator or student. But as a photographer with the Bemidji Pioneer newspaper, the 1980 BSU graduate was rarely noticed on the sidelines, in the wings offstage or at a public meeting.

That’s one of the secrets to Draper’s success as a photojournalist.

He retired his camera last summer after 30 years recording events across the city and campus. During his career, he won numerous state and regional awards, including the 2014 Minnesota Newspaper Association award for the best photographic portfolio.

Draper wasn’t always hiding in the spotlight. Three times he came away from non-BSU assignments with a bloodied nose after being punched. Twice he suffered broken ribs from attacks by aggressive subjects. His tires were slashed on occasion; his apartment defaced with graffiti; and he was choked by a snake. He almost drowned by breaking through ice on the Willow River trying to photograph a train wreck.

“I’ve been told I had the greatest job, and I did despite the crazy hours,” Draper said, noting that someone once told him he wasn’t just a photographer, but a recorder of history. “I saw the community, experienced it, and was part of it.”

While no longer working as a photojournalist, he stays busy. He and his wife, Charlene, have moved to Bagley for a new life with a routine, including a daytime job at TEAM Industries. 

It’s a schedule he expects won’t include a bloodied nose, broken ribs or snakes.