PhotoJournalism and Meaning

Photojournalism is the depiction of news shorts through photos. Photographs are used in conjunction with copy to provide full scope of a news story. Photojournalists may often work for newspapers or magazines that report on diverse and more concise news. Documentary photojournalists and street journalists may shoot one subject or project over an extended period of time. Photojournalists may encounter greater variability in their assignments.

The National Press Photographers Association (NPAA) is a professional organization representing photojournalists. Membership fee for the NPAA is listed at $110 annually. The organization also offers a discounted student membership as well international and family rates. Joining a professional organization for fellow photojournalists is a good idea on several fronts. An organization like the NPAA offers community contacts, up to date information on tools and practices, job listings, ethical guidelines and creditability. It is important to have a source other than oneself to refer to on professional situations or arising questions. Becoming a member of a reputable photojournalist organization can express professionalism to clients and peers.
Photo agencies compile ‘stock’ photography from photographers that can be licensed and purchased for use in place of hiring a photographer for a specific assignment. Aurora photos, VII Network, and Agence Vu are three examples of photo agencies.

The seeds of photojournalism began in Germany during in the mid 1920’s with the invention of the 35 mm and publication of early photojournalism magazines. Photojournalism took off in the US during WWII. Eugene Smith, Robert Capra, and Arthur Feiling were important and accomplished photojournalists during the war and beyond. After Life magazine launched in 1936 it became the premier photojournalism magazine in America. Life published until 2001.

National Geographic is one of the top photojournalism publications. The National Geographic Society began in 1888 and has been dedicated since to covering travel, science, and anthropological/sociological subjects. Amy Toensing has been a contributor to National Geographic since 1999. She is renowned for her ability to photograph people and groups.