Photo By: Alfred Eisenstaedt
Before I enrolled myself into this summer course I had to
ask myself that exactly photojournalism is. Because at the time I had no idea! I
knew what a photo was and I knew what journalism was, but when you combine the
two it makes a way of communicating that is unique, and draws in a person’s
attention in ways that they can’t look away.
The
direct definition of photojournalism is: noun the
art or practice of communicating news by photographs. Simple enough if I don’t
say so myself, but also complex at the same time.
Everyone can picture in their heads
at least one iconic picture that had a great impact on history. Each of them
had a specific role in history that could have persuaded and coaxed humans to
make decisions that affect us still to this day. Without realizing most people
do know what photojournalism is. They just don’t realize it.
It is important to know the history
of photojournalism so that we can understand what the ongoing impacts are
around us. At first they were mostly picture of war zones with stories attached
to the picture. It gave people a visual idea what exactly was going on at the
time. With these printings mainly in newspapers it gave people the feeling of
being involved with all of the current events. Today you can find aspects of
photojournalism in more than just newspapers. From articles online, news
stories on television and even quirky billboard advertisements.
We study this topic to become
informed about what is happening all around us. From all different cultures,
and ethnic backgrounds, to small town happenings. If you study photojournalism
you become a well-rounded person, who is educated and also gains experience
from things that affect you directly and indirectly.
Image source: http://dbphotojournalism.blogspot.com/
Photo By: Steve McCurry Cover of National Geographic 1985
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