/r/photojournalism

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Stories by and about photojournalists, the photography industry, and discussions of photojournalist practices.

Stories by and about photojournalists, the photography industry, and discussions of photojournalist practices.

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/r/photojournalism

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0

PHOTOJOURNALISM

Any tips for photojournalism filipino for DSPC? really need it

0 Comments
2024/11/27
05:55 UTC

3

Portfolio/website advice: Singles category including a photo from a project in different section?

Pretty straightforward question: Is the repetitive use of an image included in a photo story shown elsewhere on my site, but also used in my single images section, considered bad editing/unprofessional? I've been told it's not a good look for some reason, but open to insight.

3 Comments
2024/11/23
21:15 UTC

4

‘Ernest Cole: Lost and Found’ spotlights visionary photographer’s legacy

0 Comments
2024/11/22
17:47 UTC

7

Collections Management Software?

I have a collection of tens of thousands of analog photographs, negatives, and slides from my years working as a photojournalist that I’m beginning to edit/curate. Eventually, I will digitize the best of the best, but initially, I want to catalog to get a handle on what I have (I’m expecting to throw away A LOT).

I’m looking for a searchable database that holds basic metadata such as: date, location, subject, medium, keywords, caption info, notes on publication, etc. I’ve been looking at photo management software, but most are predicated on digital (or scanned) images. Also, museum collections software, but most are too complex and too expensive for my needs.

I’ve found some “collections management” software, both commercial and open source, for cataloging personal artwork, books, stamps and coins, baseball cards, etc., which could work.

I would like the ability to add digitized photos to a record (or link a record to digitized images), but first I want to enter all the assignments/subjects I’ve shot over the years. I think cloud-based makes sense, but it could also be local on my Mac. And I’d like a nice UI.

I could build something in Filmmaker or another easy-to-use database development tool. It’s possible that I could share this with other photographer friends - I’ve asked a few and, believe it or not, none use such a system! But if something decent already exists, I’m glad to use that.

Anyone have thoughts or experience to share?

A sampling of the products I’ve come across in my initial research:

https://tropy.org/
https://www.libib.com/
https://www.catalogit.app/
https://www.gallerysystems.com/
https://www.collectingcatalog.com/

6 Comments
2024/11/20
18:08 UTC

3

Question for a interested political science college freshman undecided on double majoring

Just for some background I am a political science student in DC and I consider myself very politically active and politico nerd. I go to GW and I met a few of the photojournalists here and I am really inspired by the community and possibility of being a photojournalist particularly working in politics whether that be a hill photographer internship after I intern for my local congressmen or eventually something like campaign trail photographer. I haven't taken any classes specific to photojournalism but likely will do a photography minor.

I couldn't find any specific answers to my questions online but what are the ethical expectations for photojournalists doing political work and volunteering. I obviously intend on being on neutral and unbiased in whatever I capture and disclose any thing I do where they might be a conflict of interests but is it incredibly taboo and banned under any guidelines? In the races I volunteer/support a particular candidate should I completely avoid covering it? How does disclosure even look like in a real world example for a photojournalist's credit in an article.

I think I would have no problem separating my professional and personal beliefs if I were to do photojournalism, and for some additional background I am of Palestinian descent and in the last year mentally I have separated my identity and emotions whenever I ever discuss the issue to a uninformed person in a way I think most people couldn't, like I have no problem with covering a Pro-Israel counterprotest unless obviously fear for my safety. I want both the mainstream view on this and what realistically/practically you've seen

11 Comments
2024/11/17
21:32 UTC

1

Please help me understand the best way to render names in a caption of a slightly confusing picture.

So I am working on a book that features a lot of pics.

One pic features a Moroccan king gathering together some distinguished guests.

I will try to explain the pic by using a diagram below. "K" is for King and "G1" and "G2" etc to identify the guests in a way that is true to the layout of the pic.

                                                                        K
                                                                  G1       G5
                                                                G2            G6
                                                              G3                 G7
                                                            G4                      G8

How would I describe this?

"From left front: G4, G3, G2, G1. Center: King. From right rear: G5, G6, G7, G8."

Or is there a better, less confusing way?

3 Comments
2024/11/17
10:44 UTC

4

How To Recruit Key Character For Project (Gaining Access)

I've looked all around and I can't seem to find many resources on this topic: How do you approach someone you don't know to be the key character in your documentary?

I am looking to create a documentary on an indigenous organization who works to preserve their culture through events, dances, and political advocacy. I've met the Director in passing for 30 seconds, sent an email asking for coffee, but haven't heard anything back yet. they seem nice enough but I'm trying really hard not to by pushy and make it seem natural. Any tips?

I also wasn't sure if I should lead with my project or ask for coffee first before asking them in person. I don't want to be misleading but also know asking such a thing over email can be jarring.

FYI my project would be documenting an entire year in their culture's time - so the length of time is also long due to all their rituals that take place over 365 days.

12 Comments
2024/11/14
19:46 UTC

5

I'm interested in moving into this field. How did you get into it?

I am a professional photographer doing mostly artsy stuff. I did have some journalism classes in college. I am 38 and comfortable, but I have been very curious about photojournalism. It feels like it could be a more meaningful use of my camera in a way. Idk. I guess I just want to hear your stories about how you got into the gig. Probably midlife crisis stuff, but I want to hear from you

12 Comments
2024/11/13
05:15 UTC

13

I'm thinking of quitting

I'm in my late 20s, I have developed myself in the image field since I was 19, I studied journalism, then I became a lighting technician, later I studied a post in Photojournalism because I wanted to be exposed to great pros and also have the opportunities to do internships.

I was one of the best in my class, I got an internship in an important regional newspaper for three months, daily news, press conferences, features, portraits, you name it. When I finished nothing, no more freelancer work, I was desesperate to get it and asked a couple of times but nothing.

I came back to my hometown, were I have less job oportunities (I can't afford living in my previous big city). Still, we have our regional newspapers and publications here, wrote to many of them, not even an answer, I'm writing to them still. Went to portfolio reviews, people love what I do but that's it, nothing after it. I have experience in daily news with this newspaper and also medium sizes agencies (ZUMA Press style basically) fast processing, FTP, etc. I also love long-term stuff and doing whatever I prefer.

I got a scholarship three week ago, they really liked a project I have been working on for a year, as part of the prize I have been commissioned to proceed with a new project. Still, I don't feel good, I'm not happy and I don't find pleasure in photography anymore, I have no grab the camera seriously since August.

For all these months I have been at home with anxiety about my future, pitching and preparing presentations, also preparing this new thing. I don't check instagram anymore because I don't want to be expose to what others are doing, I feel like sh*t when I do it ngl.

I don't know what else I can do, image is everything I have done, my CV is 100% that, I struggle taking another job as a sidegig because of this. I'm working to get into weddings, but that uncertain atm. I see colleagues at my ages doing greater than me, and I ask myself what I'm doing wrong.

I feel old, that I chose the wrong path, and that I'm a burden for my family.

3 Comments
2024/11/11
13:21 UTC

9

What’s your EDC or your daily bag?

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.  

11 Comments
2024/11/09
16:47 UTC

17

What's the best way to find out about local breaking news?

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?

12 Comments
2024/11/07
17:46 UTC

0

Which photo is this?

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!! 🙏

2 Comments
2024/11/06
17:54 UTC

3

Tips for aspiring photojournalist

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:)

7 Comments
2024/11/05
01:04 UTC

6

Tips cover Election Day NYC

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?

5 Comments
2024/11/03
15:25 UTC

2

Tips for Amateur Photographer in DC (for Election Night)

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!

5 Comments
2024/11/03
08:57 UTC

2

Going to Ukraine soon, would love some feedback on past work in order to prepare

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.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

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

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

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

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

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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?)

7 Comments
2024/11/02
21:56 UTC

0

Recently finished service as a Combat Camera in the IDF, what do I need to do to get a job as a photojournalist?

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?

4 Comments
2024/10/29
23:41 UTC

9

Payment for sharing photos across outlets?

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?

4 Comments
2024/10/24
19:36 UTC

2

Night photography - Equipment and tips

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

12 Comments
2024/10/22
10:50 UTC

31

When does street photography become unethical ?

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 ?

14 Comments
2024/10/20
20:04 UTC

5

Best practices for finding work as a stringer in a large city. How best to put up my signpost and let editors and such know I'm here?

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!

3 Comments
2024/10/20
01:20 UTC

0

Contests?

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

2 Comments
2024/10/18
03:23 UTC

12

How do I Pursue a Career in Crisis Photography?

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.

32 Comments
2024/10/13
23:00 UTC

16

Starting in early 30s?

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

17 Comments
2024/10/12
21:21 UTC

10

Developing as a photojournalist

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!

3 Comments
2024/10/09
18:13 UTC

8

Need a do-it-all lens

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?

14 Comments
2024/10/08
04:28 UTC

7

Best practice for solo-shooting, editing, and uploading at media events?

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?

7 Comments
2024/10/07
20:33 UTC

8

Washington, DC - January 6, 2025

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?

3 Comments
2024/10/07
12:35 UTC

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