The Politics of Photography

November 8, 5:57 PMPeoria Photography ExaminerRonald Nielsen

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Now, many out there will say that is an odd juxtaposition, of words; implying that there are not any politics in photography.

Remember: “A photo is worth a thousand words.”

Politics most obvious, in photo journalism; and it is controlled or detailed on two levels.

The first, is the editor of the newspaper, magazine or online site; that gives out the assignment, and lays out the editorial guidelines.

This is what professional photojournalists deal with, on a day-to-day basis.

Eg: Consider a photojournalist sent out to cover a demonstration and when he/she arrives the police and demonstrators are clashing. If the photographer, on site, shoots only the police beating on the demonstrators and arresting them the photographer is bias in favor of the demonstrators.

Remember, be you a professional or aspiring professional there are two sides – always –
to a story. Any one covering such a scene should seek to find both sides and illustrate them with equal zest and gusto!

Each side is right in their own minds. The police are trying to keep or get back to order. And, the demonstrators feel strong about the issues that they have – strong enough to be there in the first place. This is especially true in countries that do enjoy the freedom we do in the United States of America. There are journalists and photojournalists serving time in the prisons of such countries.

It is always good to have permission to photograph such events. There are things such as press passes; and letters of authorization; the proper authorities can issue that. They may try and regulate what you photograph but that is the price of being allowed at the event in the first place. In this case, one has to live within the rules.

Now, if one is an amateur; just beginning photojournalism; then one can use common sense; coupled with timing and position to get the shot! Keep in mind if one acts and looks like they belong this goes a long way to not getting noticed by the authorities.

The above is good advice for photographing things in nature and things like scenes of accidents. Focus on the scene; but keep an eye out for any problems or danger. It also helps to understand your subject.

Resources:

Rex Camera, of Peoria, Illinois, 4923 N. Sheridan Rd., Peoria, IL 61614.
Phone: 309-692-9750 ask for: Mr. Allen Potter.

Peoria Camera Shop, of Peoria, Illinois; 4700 N. University, Peoria, IL 61614;
Phone: 309-6939191 And, ask for Mr. Nate Dobbins.
Also, http://www.peoriacamerashop.com/

Also:

Ron Nielsen at Nielsen Studios Ltd. http://www.nielsenstudios.com/ for tips and advice,
or e-mail Ron at rnielsen33@att.net

B&H Photo – Video – Pro Audio, 420 Ninth Ave., New York, NY 10001. Phone: 800-947-6628 or 212-444-6608 and http://www.bhphotovideo.com

And:

Digital PhotoPro a magazine. At http://www.digitalphotopro.com Check it out!