These two videos show the winners and editors of the 66th Pictures of the Year International, who talk about powerful photojournalism and their work. The winning photos are also presented.
Sadly, these days there seems to be far less call for photographers in the rapidly changing media market, especially in newspapers and print journalism.
This is despite the fact that the most powerful images have far more emotional clout than just words, and when presented correctly can, and often do, change the world.
The fact that these days everyone has a camera-equipped mobile phone in their pocket and are willing to give their photos away for nothing doesn’t take any account of the skill, vision and creativity involved in taking a powerful image. ‘Citizen journalism’ will never replace the content produced by well-trained, experienced professionals.
If photography was just about owning the best, most professional equipment, then everybody with deep pockets could do it – unfortunately everybody can’t. The quality of some of the imagery in today’s UK media is disgracefully poor, IMHO.
I remember the heart wrenching images produced by brilliant war reporters, those in the Magnum mould, that helped to end the Vietnam war by stirring up the nations emotions and in turn pressurising the government to change policy. THAT is powerful photojournalism. The power to change the world.
These days, even if these images were submitted for publication, it is unlikely they would be printed in case they ‘upset’ somebody. Political correctness gone mad.
Anyway, take a look at these two videos. They give a more balanced view than I do. Tell me what you think in the comments.
Video 1 of 2
Video 2 of 2