A DEFINITION OF MODERN PHOTOJOURNALISM

Photojournalism is photography that would tell the entire story within one image. In the age that we live in where almost everyone has a camera in their pocket, anyone is capable of capturing a moment; but only a photojournalist can capture an image that can make an impact or a challenge in a scenario. For example, with your recent lecture we are discussing Houston and how although it’s a very tragic thing for everyone, it is a big time for photojournalism. If I was in Houston as a photojournalist I would go to the site of the two chemical explosions and take pictures of the smoke coming from it. Those photos would take such an impact on the story.

The average photojournalist can make at least $45,000, according to Chron. There are individual organizations that help promote journalists and their work. Such as, National Press Photographers Association (NPPA). The NPPA works to give journalists well-paying jobs. Memberships range from $65-$115 a year depending on your status of professionalism. A membership with the NPPA not only will benefit you and help you receive jobs, but also demonstrates professionalism when you act under their code of ethics.

The Golden Age of photojournalism is considered 1930-1970’s. During the Great Depression, Life magazine started an initiative, and created a dream team to go capture what it meant to be an American in the Great Depression. Classic images were created during this time.

A contemporary photojournalist that I have drawn to is Kitra Cahana. I love her use of cool tones, and she also gives me a dark cult-like vibe within her work. I can’t establish my own style when it comes to my work. When I freelance I have to keep to the standard good photo. But when I’m working on photography for more of an artistic purpose I really love to set color palettes for the set of images. Kitra Cahana has that establish color palette and it’s very admirable.

As of lately, I have really been trying to establish my own style. I think my coloring and technique of photography has versed through phases of my life. But I’ve really just been trying to stick to a color palette for each shoot I have done. With Kitra her work is recognizable. I don’t know of her before researching for this paper but she is someone I will follow religiously through my growth as a photographer. I don’t currently know what route I’m taking in my professional career, but some publications I admire are Washington Post, and the New York Times. I would also love to experience National Geographic.