An Amateur’s Guide To Photojournalism

Photojournalism relates to all the photography that is done to narrate news stories. This profession has seen many ups and downs and has its roots in the early parts of 20th century. Some of the traits that distinguish photojournalism from other forms of photography are objectivity, relation to the events and being illustrative. Such photos are used in all forms of the news media. Like other specialized fields of photography, there are certain practices which need to be followed in photojournalism. They are listed below:
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Use Your Feet
Photojournalists need to learn how to use their feet. As a photojournalist you need to make a habit of walking and running. There can be so many places where it is not possible to reach on vehicles but you still have to take those photos to make your name. Sometimes the reaction time is very less to shoot that priceless moment and you can’t wait for some conveyance.
Capture the Right Moment
Just like in journalism, photojournalism is all about getting the timing right. You need to track the events and then anticipate for the right moment. Take into account the time of the day or year in which the event can or will occur.
Be Equipped
Your weapon is the camera and as a professional you should take it along wherever you go. Keep it in program mode so that you can instantly shoot when necessary. When you have a collection of images related to a certain event, select the best lot and send them to the editors quickly. You should have effective communication links to instantly send your work.
Impartiality
Just like journalism, photojournalism requires the reporter to be neutral. Don’t give weight to your likes and dislikes while shooting. Of course you would be sending your best work for publication but when you are covering a certain situation don’t portrait anything which is dubious or twists the facts.
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Be Strong
Although you have got to be physically strong, you also need to be mentally and emotionally strong. There can be many devastating scenes which you need to cover but your commitment to the job should get you through such turbulent moments.
Get Exposure
Photojournalism requires you to showcase your work to the maximum audience. Maintain a website where you post your work and contact information. Use other methods such as blogging to interact with people to extend your social network and get valuable tips for your work.
Learn to Write
It is very rare to see Illustrations in newspapers or magazines. If some one can write or report along with his/her ability to take quality snaps h/s is bound to have an edge in this competitive field. Most of the times, photojournalists are also brilliant story tellers, so there are better chances of getting higher pays.
As compared to other types of photography, it is very difficult to survive in the field of photojournalism. There are a very few people who get permanent jobs from employers. Most of the times, a photojournalist’s work gives him due acceptance. Therefore, dedication and sincerity with the profession are the basic requirements.
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