On being a war correspondent

Flag raising on Iwo Jima

'Flag raising on Iwo Jima'

  • Who?: Joe Rosenthal
  • When: Feb.23, 1945

It looks like they have won the war but they didn't. (not at that point ..) Even capturing that little island took another month.

What is wrong and what is not?: ..

Impact and Awareness: Despite the risks and challenges, war photographers play a vital role in raising awareness about conflicts around the world. Their photographs can shape public opinion, influence policymakers, and contribute to a broader understanding of the consequences of war. By capturing the human face of conflicts, they aim to inspire empathy and drive positive change.

Ethical Dilemmas: War photographers face ethical dilemmas in their work. They must make difficult decisions about when to intervene and help, and when to continue documenting. There is a fine line between capturing authentic images and respecting the dignity and privacy of the subjects. Balancing these considerations requires sensitivity and a deep understanding of journalistic ethics.   (see the page about: Bellingcat)

Consider:
- Do you know all the facts?
- are you allowed to go where you want to go?
- is it a wise decision to tell your story? Pros? Cons? (your coverage may start another war ..)
- It should not make a difference who is paying your bills, but in the end it will.

Emotional Toll: Witnessing the horrors of war firsthand can take a significant emotional toll on war photographers. They are exposed to scenes of violence, devastation, and human suffering. They often form connections with the people they photograph, hearing their stories and witnessing their pain. The emotional burden of these experiences can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other psychological challenges.

It's important to note that being a war photographer is not a uniform experience, as individual circumstances and assignments can vary greatly. Each photographer will have their own unique perspective (= read: which side of the conflict are you on?) and set of challenges based on the specific conflicts they cover and the environments they work in.

Do war correspondents decide what is wrong and what is not? What do you think??
    >> No, YOU decide!

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