The Definition of Photojournalism

When thinking about the term photojournalism, two things come to mind. The first is a camera, and the second is journalism or some form of documentation. Photojournalism allows the world to not only learn about what goes on in other countries at other times, but to also see these events as they unfold. The concept of photojournalism can be thought of as the documentation of history through photographs.       

Photo by: Walker Evans

 As Professor Nordell says in his video What is Photojournalism?, “Photojournalists capture verbs-people doing things”. Everyday we take photos on our cellphones, whether they are intended for social media or just for ourselves to look at one day, they are usually shallow with little significant meaning. Photojournalists are the opposite. They live for capturing the perfect moment that will tell a story. 

Along with other photographers, photojournalists are artists of their field. In the video In Harms Way - War Photographers Zoriah and Alissa - Part 1, photojournalist Zoriah says “Photojournalism allows me to create my projects myself and go out into the world on my own…”. These journalists have the power to literally create a story with their photos, and others will be able to witness these stories with their own eyes, as if they were there themselves. These photojournalists are witnessing the lives of others in their towns or even on the other side of the world. For instance, in Professor Nordell’s video Jason Henske-Photojournalist, Jason Henske says “You’re following people from youth to adulthood”, as he describes what it is like to do his job in the town he lives in. 

Photo by: Alfred Stieglitz

Studying photojournalism is so important because you are able to see history right in front of you, and even hold it in your hand. This is so significant in the world we live in today because it allows us to better learn from our mistakes. When we can see the physical and emotional pain others are going through on the other side of the world, it makes us more conscious of our actions and the lives of others.