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CHAPTER 8 EL 119
Chapter 8: Photojournalism
Introduction to Photojournalism
Definition: Photojournalism is the documentation of events or people through photographs that narrate a story.
Niche within Photography: Although it falls under all photography subjects, photojournalism focuses on images that are deemed newsworthy for publication.
Types of Photojournalists
Employed Photojournalists: Those who work for newspaper agencies or media networks.
Independent Photojournalists: Individuals who sell pictures to newspapers and other news agencies.
Evolution and Specialization
Photojournalism has evolved into a specialized form due to the diverse areas within news coverage, resulting in dedicated roles such as:
Sports Photojournalism: Specialists who capture sports events, requiring specific skills and equipment.
War Photojournalism: The earliest form, where journalists documented wars live from the action center.
Glamour Photojournalism (Paparazzi): Coverage of celebrities and high-profile personalities.
Spot News Photojournalism: Involves capturing daily news events, such as political happenings and crime scenes.
Travel Photojournalism: Documenting landscapes, cultures, and traditions; often involves complex photography skills.
Wildlife Photojournalism: Focus on animals and their behaviors in their natural habitats, requiring specialized knowledge and equipment.
Characteristics of Effective Photojournalism
A photograph must convey its story powerfully. The phrase "A picture is worth a thousand words" emphasizes clarity and impact.
Composition: Positioning subjects within the frame to create appealing visuals while maintaining viewer focus on the image.
Elements of Composition:
Texture: Adds depth and interest.
Selective Focus: Highlights specific subjects in the picture.
Framing: Using elements in the scene to frame the subject within the photograph.
Linear Perspective: Guides the viewer's eye through lines within the photo.
Rule of Thirds: Dividing the image into thirds for balanced composition.
Silhouette: Creates a dramatic effect against light sources.
Bird's Eye View and Worm's Eye View: Unique perspectives enhancing storytelling.
Juxtaposition: Contrasting different elements within the photo to create interest.
Conclusion
Photojournalism is not just about capturing images but also about telling compelling stories through photography that connects to the audience, making every picture significant.
