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What Is Photojournalism?

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Elon Productions
What Is Photojournalism?

New York City Photojournalism Production Company describes photojournalism as the practice of reporting facts through images. The most cliché reply to this is "if your photos aren't good enough, you're not close enough". I'm going to go deeper into a few of my favorite afterward quotes and get in-depth with some topics that will make or break you as a photojournalist.

Bruce Davidson – "If you want to try an experiment sometime, set up a camera in your backyard and start taking pictures of everything around it for one year. Then try putting everything together into some kind of reportage on the life that is lived near where you live."

There are many ways photography can be used as a means of communication and advocacy; Photojournalism being at the forefront. It's the documentation of a particular event, circumstance, or issue, with the intent to inform and/or influence an audience.  Also, there are some organizations that provide Photography Services Online in NYC. Something you don't hear too often is what photojournalism isn't.

Bert Hardy – "Photojournalism is not just taking pictures of news events."

Emily Quirk – "I think that photography is about looking at something and seeing aspects of it which are not necessarily obvious to other people. And I suppose that can be journalism as well as anything else."

Gordon Parks speaks to New York City Photojournalism Production Company – "There's so much more to seeing than meets the eye". Photojournalists need to fully understand their surroundings in order to provide the right information for their audience through visuals. Timing, composition, and most of all, the ability to tell a story are key components.

Trends of photojournalism

Newspapers and magazines haven't always had the resources that they do today; so, new styles of storytelling have been introduced by photojournalists with the use of a single camera. It has evolved into what I would call documentary photography.

It's important to understand that there are many different ways a photographer can document their surroundings, whether it be through traditional methods or contemporary applications. In my opinion, shooting in this style doesn't equal photojournalism; it is simply one method of conveying information. The most recognizable example being the "shutter-priority" mode on cameras. For those who aren't familiar with shutter-priority mode: When you point your camera at something and take a picture, you're recording light coming in through the lens. The shutter must open and close in order to let the light hit your camera's sensor, otherwise, it will be too dark for a picture. Shutter-priority mode gives you control over how much time your shutter is open, giving you more freedom when taking pictures. This was groundbreaking technology at its time and allowed photojournalists to capture moments that they could only dream of before.

A tool that really helps and style to introduce to the audience

The results from this newfound freedom became one of the most powerful tools used by photojournalists today: motion blur. Motion blur allows an audience to feel as if they had actually experienced what was documented with images; whether it be through speed, chaos, or emotions and many companies who give Photography Services Online in NYC utilize this tool as well. It has become one of the most striking characteristics in documentary photography and onlookers are always left with an impression.

Another popular style of photojournalism is the ways in which images can be displayed to audiences; otherwise known as multimedia. Slideshows, galleries, and online presentations have become common means for photojournalists to present their content to viewers. While photographers still use slide film today, Photoshop has allowed them to craft more than just a single image: composite photography. As one could guess, the idea behind this is to make multiple photos into one – however you want it. HDR (High Dynamic Range) also started out as a method for enhancing contrast within digital files and afterward, was manipulated even further through programs like Photomatix. There's no limit on what can be done here, so feel free to get experimental.

Lastly, I would like to stress the need for photojournalists to constantly be on the lookout for original content. We live in an age where anyone can take pictures of anything and share them; so, it's important that we set ourselves apart. The easiest way is by putting your own spin on things: look at what you're photographing from a different angle or try a new approach as far as lighting goes. There is no right or wrong when striving for unique photos – go out there and have fun taking pictures!

The essence of photography & taking pictures

Most people will never become professional photographers for one reason or another; however, everyone has something they enjoy shooting. Experimenting with different styles and capturing your surroundings is an easy way to improve your photography, no matter if you're shooting film or taking pictures with a cell phone. Always keep in mind that there are no limitations when it comes to creativity: we have the freedom of choice.

While some people may look down on disposable cameras as being "point-and-shoot", they can be just as fun as any other camera you own – sure, you won't get amazing photos every time, but that's not what it's about: doing things differently for themselves is what really draws people into this hobby and its better off that way. There's nothing wrong with documenting memories from time to time while having a bit of fun yourself; so go out there and take some pictures!

- Armaan Jain

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