The Value of Photojournalism

I was concerned that I wasn't doing enough to educate you about the value of photojournalism.  We talked about what photojournalism is, looked up information about the career itself, but we didn't talk about what it isn't. 

Photojournalism ISN'T people taking any random picture and putting it up on the web for all to see.  Photojournalism ISN'T anyone with Photo Shop knowledge tweaking a photo beyond recognition.  Photojournalism ISN'T easy.  It takes dedication, focus and patience.  Not to mention - talent.

I decided to present some more examples of quality photojournalism and reiterate some of its merits.  You have three links to view.  At each of the links you have a task to complete or a question to be answered.  Create a new post in your blog titled Impact of Photojournalism and submit your responses and completed tasks no later than Wednesday of this week.

Task 1:
CNNs iReport
How do these images affect your connection to or understanding of the story being reported?

Task 2:
NOUPE
Select an image that speaks to you.  Then click on it to get more on the story and see additional images and the story that goes along with them.  Do you think these stories would have as much impact without the images that accompany them? Explain.

Task 3:
TopDesignMag
Select an image and tell me the story you think it tells.  Who/What is in the image?  When/Where is this happening?  Why has this subject been selected?  Why is this topic worth reporting on?  How did the photojournalist gain access to get this photo?  How does this image help tell the story?

Final task: After completing these exercises, tell me if your opinion on photojournalism has changed or stayed the same.  Explain.