I am curious what journalist will carry with them or have near by at all times.

Here are some of the specific questions I am wondering about:

-What is your go-to notebook and pen combo? Please say the brand or link it if it’s a special brand. If it’s nothing fancy, that’s fine. -What is your go-to bag/backpack? If you don’t use a bag or backpack, then what do you usually use?  -What are the most important things you check for when preparing to cover something? (Camera+lenses, notebook, pen, etc…) -What is something that you regretfully bought and ended up never using? 

I know these probably vary depending on the assignment, and I’d love to hear what you usually have prepared for different assignments. If you have anything else to add then feel free to add it! I’d love to hear anything that is said.  

I'm an independent photographer working on a photo series which would benefit from photographing breaking news in my area. How would one (such as the stinger journalists here: https://roundtable.io/keynewsnetwork/uncategorized/man-detained-in-encino-after-threatening-metro-bus-driver ) find out about breaking news events so you can get to the location on time? Do you have to monitor police scanners constantly? Or is there a way I could setup a notification for specific incidents?

Hello! I'm looking for a famous war photo: a woman searching a body cover in white sheets. It is famous photo used to describe lots of conflicts (Syria ecc), obviously in a wrong way, because it represents the stereotype of war. That's all I know. Can you help me find this photo? Thanks!! 🙏

I am pursuing a career in photojournalism. I’m a self taught photographer (2 years now) and with no conventional education. I’m trying to break in to the industry to cover humanitarian issues, social causes, and conflict with the ultimate aim of international work. I’m based in Calgary, Canada. I have a few questions if any practicing photojournalists could help please:)

1. How do I break in to the industry?
2. In building a portfolio I’m looking at shooting relevant events where I live. How do I find events to photograph? I always seem to miss the important newsworthy things happening.
3. Is it possible to only take photos or is it expected to write accompanying articles to the shots?
4. Do I need any other lenses? I have a 50mm f1.8, f4 24-105mm, f2.8 70-200mm, canon r6 mark ii.
5. How do I get assignments, or should I just submit photos to mews agencies, or do I need to pitch stories?

This is my current portfolio, any critique would be appreciated or suggestions on types of photos to add.

https://versatileropes.ca/photojournalism/

Thank you:)

Hi, I’m a photojournalism student in NYC covering election day for school. I have access to polling stations.

Do you have any tips on where people celebrate/react later in the evening?

Hi all! I'm an amateur photographer but have a particular interest in street/documentary photography. The few times I've had the courage to try street photography, I've been shouted at by subjects and couldn't quite capture great candid moments. I'm going to be in DC on the night of the election and want to take this opportunity to capture some shots to commemorate this time in our country's political history. Do people have any tips for this amateur photographer? Whether it be how to keep a low profile, where to shoot, or tips on political photography in particular?

Anything helps, thanks in advance!

I'll be volunteering for a charity in the east of Ukraine, as a side project I'll report on anything worthwhile. It's probably not gonna be a lot of military action because we'll try to avoid active conflict zones, so I'm expecting some IDP and protest stories.

I've been shooting mostly protests for the past months in order to prepare for Ukraine and I'd appreciate every bit of feedback y'all could give me.

I'm aware that I'm an amateur and that I've got loads of work ahead of me to become a professional, should that ever become a goal of mine. Just hoping for some kind people to donate me some time.

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Best article: https://www.instagram.com/p/C_0dFrjo1Rm/?img_index=10

Most pertinent photos: https://www.instagram.com/p/DB3k1FwCUd4/?img_index=1

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Photography account: https://www.instagram.com/photography.eik/

Photojournalism account: https://www.instagram.com/conflict_canary/

Landing page: https://conflictcanary.carrd.co/

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Bonus question:

I've recently inadvertantely documented a minor crime, the theft of an Israel flag at a protest against femicides. The "thief" is relatively easy to identify.
I've politely refused every request by the victims to hand over the pictures personally and told them they'd have to get the authorities involved. In Germany, where I live, journalists can refuse to hand over criminal evidence as not to endanger journalists in the future, painting them as glorified security cameras.

Agreeing in general with the concept, how far do I take this refusal if the police or lawyers start contacting me. Do I wait to be sued, do I go in front of a court?

(Me being sued over this is unlikely, I'm aware of that, just curious about the standard procedure. Have any of you had any similar experiences?)

https://preview.redd.it/bvkmx41h2sxd1.jpg?width=6000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e031790b186ead874f6e006cf71d9f5dee7d154c

https://preview.redd.it/y98kycv84sxd1.jpg?width=5182&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ff4efb57866b505bcff5726e50259d518934c375

Hi, in April I finished three years serving as a Combat Camera in the IDF. I got to document some very intense situations like the war in Gaza and the earthquake in Turkey. Now I would like to use my powers for good and feel confident enough that I have what it takes to do this job.

Since I have US citizenship I I want to try and get a job in a major US (or possibly European) city but I don't really know how I would go about doing that as I don't know anyone in the field outside of Israel.

I applied online for a photographer fellowship program at both Reuters and NYT but I'm afraid both will have hundreds of applicants so my chances of getting the position are pretty low.

Do you have any tips on what the best way to get employment are?

Also this is my portfolio I would love to get tips on how to improve it: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lfUD4LSMEOCbd7ZI8bEN_4T1FN5tlfkH/view?usp=sharing

Do you think I MUST have a website or will a PDF work?

I'm an early-career journalist at a local outlet. A news outlet from another part of the state just approached me about using a photo from one of my past stories. It seems like they expect it for free. Is it typical to share photos across outlets without compensation?

Hello!

What equipment do you use when shooting in the dark to get sharp pictures? I use a Sony A7R III with a Sigma 24-70 f/2.8 DG DN 2, and was wondering what you would recommend to achieve the sharpest possible images in dark environments.

If shooting events at night, is there anything in particular to consider? I would appreciate any tips you have, as I want to learn more about night photography and how to best handle low light.

Thanks in advance!

Edit: My focus is blue light incidents that relate to police work and rescue efforts. Also demo stations and transport-related events, but then mostly focus on detailed images

When I wonder wether I should post a picture of a stranger online without his consent, I always remember these words from Sebastao Salgado : "a photograph should always enhance/respect the dignity of the person photographed".

Recently came across this post in r/analog. Honestly felt bad about the lack of ethical questioning in this thread. Some faces are clearly identifiable. A picture posted on internet is out forever, and their future employer could identify them in 2mn using AI face recognition.

Those picture documente a reality and they should have been taken. But shared on internet like that ? No, I don't think so. If you want to tackle such a noble task of documenting the reality, you should do it with a meaningful and ethical approach.

I was curious of what you guys think ?

I have been shooting off and on for the last 15 years. I recently left a teaching job and would like to get back into regular, freelance photography. As full time as I am able to make happen. I am already shooting for a small agency and have covered big events in my city (Las Vegas). I also have a few corporate clients. My current issue is regular work. I cover some major events, based on what we are able to get credentials for.

The goal: More frequent work and (hopefully) a better rate.

What's the best way to "put up my sign post" and let those looking for freelancers know I'm here? How do you find assignment editors and photo editors to contact? How do you develop a newsletter and how regularly do you send something out?

It's been a while since I've been in the game, but have been trying for a little over year now and figure I should have more work at this point. I'm networking with other local photographers as best I can, but clearly I'm not reaching the right people.

Any outside articles, videos and such you can point me to would be awesome.

I appreciate any help and advice here. Thank you!

Have you or your editors submitted your work to any contests? If so, which ones?

I am interested in being a crisis photographer in the future, though I do not know where I would start. I am currently in high school and I am apart of our newspaper, sports network, and I am our JROTC’s photographer as well.

Some sources online recommend that I get a bachelor’s degree in journalism, though I am not sure if that would be worth it or not, and I am not too excited about taking general education classes after high school.

I have thought about being a combat camera for the military, though I don’t think I could live with myself if i did.

I worry that if I were to go the freelance route that I would not make enough money to cover the expenses that come with travel.

If you have any advice or insight on this career path I would love to hear from you. I am wondering how one becomes employed in this field and the steps to get there.

Also, I am not interested in hearing about how I don’t really want this career and the dangers of it unless you are speaking from experience.

Hei all,

I am just over 30 and I am currently working as a 9-5 blue collar in Norway. Being a photojournalist has been a dream of mine that got downed in my late teens when reality hit, I'll not indulge in details but it was not a viable option.

Now I am questioning the matter. I have always been taking pictures and writing since I was in my early teens, althought often not putting the two things together.

Is it too late to start after 30 y.o.? Considering starting from zero - no contacts, no related professional experience, no related formal education, no idea on how to read the market. What would be a way to begin, if even possible?

On a little more naïve note, here is what I think it's good to have and I have: I know how to operate the camera, how to write (I have a b.a. in literature languages, I am fluent in 3 languages and can use a 4th), I am curious and a focused listener. I like to walk a lot and to travel. I constantly look and try to study professional photojournalists' work, I have a 'respect and not disturb more than needed' ethic.

Maybe I am only daydreaming, but I am nevertheless deeply curious.

Thanks from Norway

Hello!

I am a 16-year-old photojournalist from Sweden who recently started working to document events such as demonstrations, accidents and other news events that attract attention. As I want to develop in this area, I would appreciate your tips and advice.

How do I find news events quickly?

Currently, I stay up to date by following the news feed and rushing to the scene when something happens. But are there other methods to get information about events faster? For example, is it important to build up a network of contacts who can advise of events in advance and how do I best do this?

Safety in risky situations

When it comes to safety, I'm thinking about getting a pressure vest. Is it something you recommend? And if so, what type of vest works best for this type of job, especially something that isn't too heavy or hangs too much? In addition to the vest, what do you recommend wearing at demonstrations, accident sites or similar situations? What equipment (besides the camera) should you bring?

Sources of inspiration and development

To develop as a photojournalist, which photographers or journalists are you inspired by? Are there any specific people you recommend following to get great ideas or learn techniques to take better photos? I would also like to know if you have any recommendations for books or videos that can help me learn more about photojournalism.

Press card and access to places

Is it necessary to get a press card to get better access to different places? In which situations have you experienced that a press card has been useful?

Law and ethics

Finally, are there any specific rules, laws or ethical considerations one should keep in mind when photographing accident scenes or demonstrations?

I would really appreciate any help I can get to develop in this area. Thanks in advance!

Print guy here. I’m often tasked with shooting for my stories and was looking to buy a new lens for my Fujifilm x-t2 (a pretty mediocre body).

I currently have a pancake lens, but I need something a little more versatile. Also would like to shoot video eventually.

I won’t be shooting portraits or sports. Mostly press conferences, protests, features, landscapes, etc…

Any recommendations?

Hello!

I am relatively new to the photojournalism scene. I have been contributing photos to a publication that provides me with media and press access to a lot of political events as I am in a major swing state.

Tomorrow I was asked to photograph Biden but the buyout assignment requests that I upload all photos as soon as the event is over.

Typically, since I am usually not bound by an assignment contract, I will take the photos home, purge, edit, add metadata, and upload. This process usually takes me north of an hour but its a very drawn out process.

Tomorrow however, I am considering making a metadata preset in advance, and shooting in JPG with a slight color profile so that as soon as I finish shooting I can stay in the media box and purge, add descriptions, and upload.

This would limit the raw editing capabilities but would save me a TON of time. I just don't know if that's going to be worth it is all.

Do any of you have experience/advice on tackling all the requirements solo within a timely fashion?

The next election certification will fall on January 6th. I would assume there will be a lengthy perimeter and all sorts of law enforcement/National Guard in support. I would also assume that the results of the election will lead to one type of day versus another. I live in DC, so I will be heading down there to capture the day. Does anybody else have plans to be in DC for this day?

I recently ran into a work dilemma. I was to prioritize this event for an article and missed the shot I needed. Long-story short: I didn’t get to the event on time for external reasons. This is the first time it has happened to me, considering I’m usually early to my assignments, especially if it’s a high priority assignment. I’m not going to make an excuse and say it wasn’t my fault, but I was attending the event with the video team from work and we missed our shuttle. I could’ve gotten there earlier instead of attending with them - since the video team went to record something else at the event.

Has anyone else missed the shot they needed for an article/publication? I feel horrible and will have to be upfront with my boss… I’ve been photographing assignments for about 5 years now and I feel irresponsible. Let me know what y’all have experienced and if you had felt the same way.

I am currently a high school senior who is interested in becoming a photojournalist, and am wondering what I should do for college classes. I am already taking photography and journalism courses in high school, but cannot decide between choosing photography or journalism as a major (I would have the other as a minor) or if I want to dual major. Any advice?

Doing some reseach on journalism in the 70's. How did photojournalists file late-breaking story photos in late 60's-70's? Ex: the Watts Riot, which started at night, but photos appeared in The LA Times the next morning. Reporters were said to have called their stories into Editors that night. How did photographers file? Thank you!

So I am a lifelong hobbyist photographer. Its been the one consistent my entire life. Recently I have really liked the idea of starting down the path of a independent/freelance photographer with a focus on photojournalism. I would like to do more than just take photos for my personal social media. I am not planning on trying to make a living from this but I would like to do something with it.

So far I have been keeping an eye out for local events that I personally find entertaining that also look like they would photograph well. Mostly its looking like the local music scene. I am going to a Drag Race tomorrow. Its great being able to go to shows, get some good photos and help the bands out. I do a little write up of the event which seems to be well received.

Problem is I don't know how to take the next step. Do I simply cold call local papers, magazines, ect tell them I am looking to become an independent photojournalist and ask how to submit work or what kind of work they are looking for?

I just covered a funeral for the first time today. It was difficult to watch people sob and grieve while remaining stone-faced. At one point I did tear up, tried to recompose for a bit, and kept shooting. I also just felt extremely conflicted about when to take photos, when to step away. The whole thing just left me feeling out of place. Have any of you ever had a similar experience? Is it unprofessional to cry on assignment?

nyc based photographer marcus maddox talks about how he got started in photography, being published in places like the new yorker and time magazine, having his work exhibited in the whitney museum, and his latest project Hey lover https://youtu.be/6c6GHT9xe9E 

As a photojournalist I can’t say that’d I’ve accepted this assignment — 50/50 on a yes at this point but an incredibly hard decision to get off the fence. And, yes, I understand the circumstances implicitly. And for that matter support physician-assisted suicide in certain medical situations. Nonetheless, it’s an assignment call I’d not want to receive.

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/09/25/world/europe/switzerland-sarco-capsule-suicide.html