Photography documents moments in a snap, using the element of time and light to reproduce a moment as it is recognized. For its quick access and production, photography has been the go-to tool for documentation, together with other media that supplement other storytelling techniques.
Image source: momentaworskshops.com
The impact of photography in society has been immense, with it being used to create awareness about issues otherwise unbeknown to many. Photojournalism keeps the stories alive even after it has been reported in the news, via television, print, or radio. Truth in this form of documentation is hard to break, unlike in other forms, where a single word altered may alter the whole event.
Now that we’re bombarded with information more than ever (thanks to social media), almost anyone can become a photojournalist. While camera phones don’t compare to professional cameras, amateur photojournalist who take on social media as their main platform gain more attention than professional ones, with their skills honed through time. Because of this, photojournalism has drastically changed, and has morphed into videojournalism. With options to go live, social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook have been the biggest tools for creating awareness through the Internet. Their quick access has lured users of their apparent right to record anything that’s newsworthy.
Photojournalism, when partnered with newswriting, is bound by the rules of journalism used for broadcasting. It tells the truth without being rude, taking in consideration photos that have to be censored or reports that require disclaimers before being broadcast—unlike in unregulated platforms such as Facebook and Instagram.
Image source: huffingtonpost.com
Hi there! My name is Jack Elway and I’m a retired photographer traveling around the country to take photos of national parks. I’m currently in Denver to shoot its wilderness. Follow me here for quick updates.
Jack Elway 
