Photojournalism: A dance between accuracy and speed
By Majid Khahi
Guest contributor
In the realm of photojournalism, I find myself immersed in a dynamic dance between accuracy and speed, a delicate balance where the urgency to capture and share moments in real-time defines our craft. The heartbeat of this profession pulses with the rhythms of stress and excitement, an electrifying mixture that fuels our passion for storytelling through the lens.
Photojournalism intertwined with street photography and documentary work form a trio of visual narratives that unveil the tapestry of life. What sets us apart is the heartbeat of news value – the heartbeat of a moment that bears witness to history unfolding.
To be a news photographer demands an intimate connection with diverse facets of society. Our mission is clear: To seize the essence of unfolding stories, to etch reality onto frames, and to bear witness for those who may not have a voice.
In the realm of news photography, aesthetics bow to immediacy. The artistry is present but not dominant. Our focus is on the raw, unfiltered portrayal of events as they unfold. Yet, within this devotion to accuracy, there exists a subtle dance between form and function, a dance that often goes unnoticed but lends depth to our visual storytelling.
Financial rewards are not the cornerstone of our pursuit. Photojournalism is a calling answered by those driven by passion rather than profit. It is a journey through life’s nooks and crannies, guided by an unquenchable thirst to document the spectrum of human existence. This field thrives on the love for capturing life’s intricacies, the zeal to preserve the pages of history, and the resolute dedication to uncovering the truth.
I find great happiness in capturing the everyday rhythms of life. But things have changed in my homeland, Iran. The vibrant colors of true news photography have faded, replaced by more muted tones, often overshadowed by public relations.