ARCHIEVE EPSIODE: This episode features UK photojournalist Paul Conroy. Known for his work in war-torn regions, particularly Syria, Conroy shares his experiences and insights into the life of a conflict photographer, the importance of storytelling, and the legacy of his late colleague, Marie Colvin. We have decided to bring back this episode in memory of Colvin, who was killed 13 years ago while working with Conroy in Syria.

Paul Conroy’s path to photojournalism is as compelling as the stories he captures. Initially a soldier in the British Army, he transitioned to photography after working in sound engineering. His first encounter with conflict came when he traveled to the Balkans with a charity, where he witnessed the plight of refugees. This experience ignited his passion for capturing the human side of war, focusing on the stories of those who suffer the most—women and children.

The Bond Between Photojournalist and Writer

A significant aspect of Conroy’s work is the deep bond he shared with Marie Colvin, a renowned journalist who was tragically killed in Syria. Their relationship was built on trust and a shared mission to tell the stories of those affected by conflict. Conroy describes their partnership as almost telepathic, allowing them to operate seamlessly in chaotic environments.

Marie Colvin’s legacy continues to resonate in journalism. Conroy speaks passionately about her commitment to telling the stories of the overlooked. Despite the dangers, he believes that the role of photojournalists is more vital than ever. In a world rife with misinformation, credible, on-the-ground reporting is crucial.

Paul Conroy’s insights into photojournalism remind us of the human stories behind the headlines. His dedication to capturing the voices of the vulnerable and his bond with Marie Colvin illustrate the profound impact journalists can have in times of conflict. As we navigate a complex media landscape, it is essential to support those who risk their lives to bring us the truth, honoring the legacy of journalists like Colvin and Conroy.

This is an archive episode with hosts Joe Giordano and Elena Volkova originally released in 2019.

#photography #war #storytelling #reporting #humanstories

Previous Episode: Svetlana Bachevanova   Next Episode: Jackie Molloy

The post Episode 60: Paul Conroy (Conflict Photography) first appeared on A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.

Photo taken by David Stuart

Svetlana Bachevanova is a prominent figure in the field of photojournalism and the publisher of FotoEvidence. Through her work, Svetlana has dedicated herself to amplifying the voices of those affected by conflict and injustice, particularly through her recent projects focused on Ukraine.

Svetlana’s journey into photojournalism began in Bulgaria during a pivotal time in the country’s history. As Bulgaria transitioned from a dictatorship to a parliamentary democracy in 1989, she was invited to work for the newspaper Demokrasija. This opportunity allowed her to document significant changes in her homeland. However, the challenges of censorship loomed large, making it difficult for journalists to depict social injustices openly. Many, including Svetlana, resorted to metaphorical art photography to convey their messages.

This experience underscored the importance of documenting history, leading her to establish FotoEvidence in the United States in 2010. The organization is committed to supporting documentary photography that focuses on human rights and social justice.

One of the most compelling aspects of photojournalism is its ability to capture the human experience in times of crisis. Svetlana’s work highlights the importance of visual documentation in shaping narratives and influencing public perception. For instance, her books “Ukraine: A War Crime” and “Ukraine: Love and War” showcase the devastating effects of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, featuring powerful images that serve as a testament to the atrocities committed during the war.

Svetlana emphasizes that photography cannot change the world on its own, but it can inspire action and educate people about the realities faced by marginalized communities. Her initiative, “FotoEvidence Ukraine,” empowers local photographers to document their own stories, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.

Through her work with FotoEvidence, Svetlana is preserving history and inspiring future generations of photographers to use their craft as a tool for change. In an increasingly complex world, authentic storytelling through photography is essential for fostering understanding and empathy, ultimately leading to meaningful change.

#photography #documentaryphotography #war  #publishing #photobooks #10fps

Previous Episode: Nolan Trowe  Next Episode: Paul Conroy

The post Episode 136: Svetlana Bachevanova (Documentary Photography) first appeared on A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.

Nolan Trowe is a passionate photographer and storyteller who focuses on the disabled community, using his lens to capture the often-overlooked narratives of those living with disabilities. After suffering a spinal cord injury in 2016, Nolan turned to photography as a means of expression and connection. His journey began with a simple point-and-shoot camera gifted by his mother, which ignited his love for capturing daily life and the experiences of his friends.

Nolan’s journey into photography began as a teenager when he received a small point-and-shoot camera from his mother. After his spinal cord injury, he embraced photography as a form of expression while studying at NYU. A photojournalism class ignited his passion for storytelling through images, and under the mentorship of renowned photographers like Jeffrey Scales and Ash Gilbertson, he began to focus on capturing the everyday experiences of wheelchair users.

Nolan’s work is characterized by authenticity and emotional depth. He emphasizes personal projects as a means to explore his identity and experiences as a person with a disability. Initially resistant to self-portraiture, he eventually embraced it as a powerful form of self-expression, using it to convey the complexities of his life.

During his time at the Light Work residency, Nolan experimented with large-scale prints and multimedia collages, allowing his work to reflect his personal journey. His photography is not just about capturing images; it’s about telling stories that resonate and challenge societal perceptions of disability.

Nolan’s latest project in the Washington Post showcases the struggles faced by wheelchair users in navigating public spaces, highlighting the need for change and greater awareness. The response from the disabled community has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude for the visibility his work brings.

Nolan Trowe’s journey as a photographer underscores the power of storytelling and the importance of representation in the arts. By focusing on the experiences of the disabled community, he captures moments that spark conversations about accessibility and inclusion. Through his lens, Nolan invites us to see the world from a different perspective, reminding us that every story deserves to be told.

#photograpy #documentaryphotography #disabledcommunity #expression #10fps

Previous Episode: Shuran Huang  Next Episode: Svetlana Bachevanova

The post Episode 135: Nolan Trowe (Documentary Photography) first appeared on A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.

Photo taken on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, on Wednesday, January 4, 2023.

U.S. President Joe Biden departs for the State of the Union Address at the White House in Washington, DC, on Thursday, March 7, 2024.
NYTSOTU24

Shuran Huang  黃舒然 (she/her) is a Cantonese Washington D.C.-based photographer, stands out in the competitive world of photography with her work featured in prestigious publications like The New York Times, Vogue, and Time Magazine. Fluent in multiple languages and shaped by her diverse background, Sharon’s journey captivates audiences just as much as her stunning images. 

Shuran’s story begins as an immigrant, influenced by her father’s career as an epidemiologist. Growing up in various countries, she embraces diverse cultures and becomes fluent in English, Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, and Spanish. This multilingual ability enriches her interactions and enhances her storytelling.

After graduating from the Newhouse School of Communications in just four years, Shuran quickly establishes herself in photography. Her impressive portfolio showcases her talent for capturing the essence of her subjects, whether they are political figures or everyday people. 

Shuran reveals that she typically handles one full-day assignment at a time, allowing her to immerse herself in each project. Her background as a professional swimmer instills discipline and a strong work ethic. With ten years of training, she learns the importance of dedication—qualities that contribute to her success.

A standout feature of Shuran’s photography is her mastery of light. Influenced by renowned photographer Greg Heisler, Shuran hones her skills in using various lighting techniques to enhance her images, whether through battery-operated lights or natural light.

Shuran emphasizes the importance of research, often delving deep into her subjects’ backgrounds to create meaningful connections. This dedication shines through in her personal projects, where she immerses herself in her subjects’ stories, enriching her photography.

As a political photographer, Shuran faces unique challenges. The strict media access at the White House and Congress requires patience and strategy. She shares insights into photographing politicians, noting how understanding their personalities can lead to compelling images.

#photography #politicalphotography #multilingual #light #NewYork Times #Vouge #TimeMagazine #10fps

Previous Episode: Ashly Stohl  Next Episode: Nolan Trowe

The post Episode 134: Shuran Huang (Political Photography) first appeared on A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.

Photo credit: Victoria Will

In this latest episode of the “10 Frames Per Second” podcast, hosted by Joe Giordano and Molly Roberts, we dive into family photography.  This episode not only highlights the importance of storytelling through images but also offers valuable insights for aspiring photographers and enthusiasts alike.

The episode features Ashly Stohl, a talented photographer and co-publisher of Peanut Press, who shares her journey of documenting the life of a stay-at-home mother of three. Initially, Stohl set out to capture the struggles and loneliness that often accompany this role.  However, as she delved into her project, she discovered that the passage of time became the central theme. This revelation highlights the beauty of photography as a medium that can evolve and surprise the artist, often leading to unexpected narratives that resonate with viewers.

Ashly Stohl emphasizes her preference for black and white photography, stating that it captures the emotional essence of a moment more effectively than color. She articulates a common sentiment among photographers: color often represents what something looks like, while black and white conveys what it feels like. This distinction is crucial for those looking to evoke deeper emotions through their work, reminding us that the choice of medium can profoundly impact the viewer’s experience.

As Stohl discusses her new book, “Disappear Here,”  she reflects on the challenge of seeing familiar surroundings through a fresh lens. Stohl candidly shares her experiences of balancing her photography career with raising children in Los Angles, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Stohl discusses  her role as a co-publisher at Peanut Press and shares what it is like to publish a photography book. She emphasizes the importance of treating each project with care and respect, as it involves significant investment from both the creators and the audience. She emphasizes that the process should be enjoyable rather than stressful.

 Stohl’s work with family photography reminds us that photography has the power to capture life’s essence, even in its most ordinary moments. Whether you are an aspiring photographer or simply someone who appreciates the art of storytelling, this episode serves as a source of inspiration to pick up your camera and start documenting your own unique narrative.

#photography #family #personal projects #storytelling #10fps

Previous Episode: Jason Gardner  Next Episode: Shuran Huang

The post Episode 133: Ashly Stohl (Documentary Photography & Publishing) first appeared on A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.

In the vibrant world of photojournalism, few subjects evoke as much passion and energy as the celebration of carnival. This lively festival, rich in culture and tradition, has captivated photographers and audiences alike. In a recent episode of the podcast “10 Frames Per Second,” hosts Joe Giordano and Molly Roberts welcomed Jason Gardner, a talented photographer whose work focuses on capturing the essence of carnival. Through his experiences and insights, Gardner sheds light on the intricate relationship between photography, culture, and storytelling.

The Journey Begins

Jason Gardner’s journey into photography is as colorful as the festivals he captures. His initial foray into the world of photography was sparked by a series of backpacking trips across the globe, including the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Australia. These adventures not only broadened his horizons but also ignited a passion for storytelling through images. Gardner’s experiences during these travels laid the groundwork for his future projects, allowing him to explore diverse cultures and their unique celebrations. 

One pivotal moment in Gardner’s career was his involvement in a book project Here’s New York related to September 11th. This experience opened his eyes to the power of photography as a medium for conveying emotions and narratives. It was a turning point that solidified his commitment to pursuing photography as a profession.

In 2013, Jason published A Flower in the Mouth, a photobook about the culture, music and rituals of Carnaval in Pernambuco, Brazil (Visual Anthropology Press, USA).

The Carnival Experience

Over 15 years and 15 countries, Gardner’s work revolved around the carnival, a festival that embodies the spirit of community, creativity, and tradition. He emphasizes the importance of capturing not just the visual spectacle but also the underlying emotions and stories that define these events. His incredible book project, titled “We the Spirits,” reflects this philosophy, aiming to delve deeper into the themes of life, death, and the human experience.

During the podcast, Gardner discussed the improvisational nature of carnival celebrations. While there are traditional characters and structures, the spontaneity of the events allows for a unique blend of chaos and order. This dynamic environment presents both challenges and opportunities for photographers. Gardner’s approach involves embracing this unpredictability, allowing him to capture authentic moments that resonate with viewers.

The Power of Multiple Mediums

In today’s digital age, the ability to convey a story through various mediums is invaluable. Gardner recognizes this and incorporates video into his work, complementing his still photography. He explained how motion and sound can enhance the viewer’s understanding of the carnival experience, providing context that still images alone cannot convey. By creating short video clips alongside his photographs, Gardner offers a more immersive experience for his audience.

He also emphasizes the importance of captions and written narratives in his projects. By including quotes from participants and contextual information, Gardner enriches the viewer’s understanding of the cultural significance behind the images. This multi-faceted approach not only elevates his work but also engages the audience on a deeper level.

Jason Gardner’s journey through the world of carnival photography is a testament to the power of storytelling through images. His dedication to capturing the spirit of these celebrations, combined with his innovative approach to content creation, sets him apart in the field of photojournalism.

#photography #cycleoflife #storytelling #humanexperience #carnival #photojournalism #10fps

Previous Episode: Sandra Stevenson   Next Episode: Ashly Stohl

The post Episode 132: Jason Gardner (Documentary Photography) first appeared on A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.

In our recent discussion with Sandra Stevenson, Deputy Director of Photography at the Washington Post, we explored the evolving landscape of photography in journalism and storytelling.  We covered everything from trends in political photography to the future of the professional freelance photographer.  Topics included the use of AI, the evolution of media and how people consume their news and how the mainstream media might fare under a Trump White House.

Here are three key takeaways that every visual storyteller should consider:

– **The Power of Visuals**: Photography and video have the unique ability to capture emotions and events in ways that words cannot. As Sandra highlighted, witnessing moments unfold through visuals can create a deeper connection with the audience.

– **Adapting to New Platforms**: With the rise of mobile and social media, particularly Instagram, photographers must think beyond traditional storytelling. Consider how your work will be presented digitally and how it can engage audiences across various platforms.

– **Ethics and Authenticity**: As technology evolves, so do the challenges in maintaining ethical standards in photography. It’s crucial for photographers and editors to stay informed about best practices and the implications of tools like AI and Photoshop on the integrity of visual storytelling.

Join us in embracing these insights to enhance our craft and connect more meaningfully with our audiences!

#Photography #VisualStorytelling #Journalism #Ethics #SocialMedia #10FramesPerSecond

Previous Episode: Latoya Ruby Frazier Next Episode: Best Photobooks of 2024

The post Episode 131: Sandra Stevenson (Photo Editor) first appeared on A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.

Our hosts pick their Top 10 best photo books of the year 2024: Insights from the 10 Frames per Second Podcast

Introduction

In the world of photojournalism, the power of storytelling through images cannot be overstated. The recent episode of the podcast “10 Frames per Second,” hosted by Joe Giordano and Molly Roberts, delves into the intricate process of creating photo books and how they selected their Top 10 Best Photo Books of the Year 2024. With a focus on the challenges and triumphs faced by photographers and editors alike, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone interested in the art of visual storytelling. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring photographer, understanding the nuances of photo book creation can elevate your work and connect you with your audience in profound ways.

The Journey of Creating a Photo Book

Molly Roberts shares her experience of starting with a vast collection of images—200, to be precise—before narrowing it down to a select few for a photo book. This process highlights a crucial aspect of photojournalism: the importance of curation. As Molly points out, the challenge lies not only in selecting the right images but also in structuring them to tell a compelling story. This is particularly vital when working on projects that aim to shed light on significant social issues, such as the lives of migrant workers on farms. The question arises: how can we feed the world without the contributions of these essential workers? This theme of social responsibility resonates throughout the podcast, emphasizing the role of photojournalists in documenting and advocating for change.

Joe Giordano and Molly discuss the evolving landscape of photo books, particularly the resurgence of archival work. This trend involves reinterpreting historical photographs, often with open copyrights, to create new narratives. By taking a fresh look at these images, photographers can juxtapose them in ways that provoke thought and evoke emotion. This creative approach not only honors the past but also invites contemporary audiences to engage with history in a meaningful way.

Common Pitfalls in Photo Book Creation

As the conversation unfolds, Molly shares some common mistakes that photographers make when assembling their photo books. One of the key takeaways is the importance of having a clear vision and structure from the outset. Without a solid framework, the narrative can become disjointed, leaving readers confused about the story being told. This insight serves as a reminder that successful photo books are not just collections of images; they are carefully crafted narratives that guide the viewer through a visual journey.

The hosts also touch on the significance of supporting fellow artists in the photo book community. Molly recalls her advice to students who aspired to see their work published in magazines: if you love photo books, you must support them by purchasing and promoting the work of others. This sense of community is vital for the survival of the medium, especially in an age where digital content often overshadows traditional print.

The Future of Photo Books

As the episode wraps up, the hosts express their excitement for upcoming projects and the potential for new voices in the photo book landscape. They discuss the importance of innovation and creativity in this field, particularly as technology continues to evolve. With the rise of artificial intelligence and digital media, the challenge for photographers will be to maintain the authenticity and emotional depth that physical photo books can offer.

Conclusion

The “10 Frames per Second” podcast provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of photo books, highlighting the dedication and artistry that goes into creating them. From the initial curation of images to the final publication, the journey is filled with challenges and opportunities for growth. As Joe Giordano and Molly Roberts emphasize, the key to a successful photo book lies in storytelling, structure, and community support. For anyone passionate about photography, this episode serves as a reminder of the power of images to inspire, inform, and connect us all. So, whether you’re an aspiring photographer or a seasoned pro, take the time to explore the world of photo books and support your fellow artists in their creative endeavors.

Molly Roberts 2024 Best Photo Books:

My America by Diana Matar (10FPS Episode 119)

Manifest, Thirteen Colonies by Wendel White (10FPS Episode 104)

Sons of the Living by Bryan Schutmaat

American Artifacts by Matt Black

Light in the Underworld by Martin Broen (10FPS Episode 125)

We the Spirits by Jason Gardner

A Difficulty is a Light by Rebecca Norris Webb

Feed the Planet by George Steinmetz (10FPS Episode 127)

Works in Progress by Peter Essick (10FPS Episode 123)

Sea Beach by Ismail Ferdous

J.M. Joe Giordano’s Top 10 Photo Books of 2024:

Gloryland by Robert LeBlanc (10FPS Episode 122)

The History War by Larry Towell

Instant Radicals by Andrae Steed

Live on Live Long by Boogie

Encounters by Mary Ellen Mark

Omen Phantasmagoria at the FSA Archive – Edited by León Muñoz Santini, Jorge Panchoaga. Text by Lucy Ives

Nowhere New York by Julia Gorton (10FPS Episode 112)

American Artifacts by Matt Black

White Fence by Graciella Iturbide

Scene/Seen by Michah Wood

Previous Episode: Jason Gardner          Next Episode: Sharun Huang

The post Episode 130: Best Photo Books of 2024 first appeared on A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.

Welcome to the 10 Frames Per Second podcast, where photojournalism meets social advocacy. Hosted by Joe Giordano and Molly Roberts, this podcast dives deep into the world of photography and its role in addressing social issues. In this episode, we are honored to have LaToya Ruby Frazier, a renowned photographer and social justice advocate, as our guest.

LaToya Ruby Frazier began her photography journey at the age of 16, capturing her family and community in Braddock, Pennsylvania. Inspired by legendary photographers like Walker Evans, Dorothea Lange, and Gordon Parks, Frazier has dedicated her work to documenting the social and environmental injustices faced by her community.  Thus far she has produced 5 books.

Guggenheim Fellow

LaToya’s work is rooted in her personal experiences growing up in a post-industrial town. She uses her camera as a tool to create a narrative that challenges the dominant media portrayal of communities like hers.

Social and Environmental Contexts: Frazier’s photography encapsulates the struggles of living in a dilapidated environment, where systemic issues like housing discrimination and pollution are prevalent.

Historic Erasure: A pivotal moment in her career was discovering the book Images of America: Braddock, Allegheny County, which omitted the stories of African Americans. This realization fueled her commitment to document her community’s narrative.

Counter-Narratives: LaToya aims to provide a counter-narrative to the mainstream media’s portrayal of her hometown, emphasizing the humanity and resilience of its residents.

Documenting the Water Crisis: A New Narrative

In our discussion, LaToya delves into the water crisis affecting communities across America, particularly in Flint, Michigan. Her work highlights the systemic problems that lead to contaminated water, drawing attention to the urgent need for clean drinking water.

Impactful Imagery: LaToya emphasizes how powerful images can raise awareness about social issues. For instance, witnessing water fountains covered with signs declaring “contaminated, do not drink” left a lasting impression on her, pushing her to create a photo essay that would reach millions.

Long-Term Engagement: She believes that documentary work should have a sustained life, urging artists to continue their engagement with communities long after initial projects are complete.

Collaborative Efforts in Crisis

LaToya highlights the importance of collaboration in addressing social issues:

Community Connections: Through her relationships with activists like Shay Cobb and Amber Hassan, she documents their struggles and triumphs in navigating the water crisis.

Innovative Solutions: The introduction of Moses West’s atmospheric water generator technology in Flint represents a beacon of hope. LaToya’s work showcases how grassroots activism can lead to transformative solutions.

In her recent project, LaToya shifts focus to community health workers in Baltimore, highlighting their critical role during the COVID-19 pandemic.

More Than Conquerors: This project aims to honor community health workers, often overlooked despite their invaluable contributions. LaToya’s portraits serve as a monument to their dedication and resilience.

Advocacy for Change: By documenting their stories, LaToya advocates for better recognition and support for these workers, pushing for policy changes that ensure fair compensation and benefits.

In an exciting development, LaToya’s work has found a permanent home at the Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA). Glenstone has gifted a significant monument to the BMA, ensuring that LaToya’s impactful art will be preserved for future generations. This gift symbolizes a commitment to the people of Baltimore, allowing them to engage with and draw inspiration from her work.

LaToya’s presence in the BMA is not just a personal achievement; it serves as an inspiration for young artists in Baltimore and beyond. As educators like Joe Giordano prepare their students to experience LaToya’s work, the impact of her art continues to ripple through the community.

LaToya Ruby Frazier’s work exemplifies the power of photography in advocating for social justice. By documenting her community’s struggles and triumphs, she not only preserves their narratives but also inspires others to engage in meaningful conversations about equity and representation.

Photography can serve as a powerful tool for social change.

Previous Episode: Kevin Painchaud        Next Episode: Jason Gardner

The post Episode 129: LaToya Ruby Frazier (Documentary Photography) first appeared on A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.

Welcome back to 10 Frames Per Second, the podcast dedicated to the world of photojournalism, hosted by Joe Giordano and Molly Roberts. Each Tuesday, we explore the stories behind the lens with professional photojournalists. In our latest episode, we had the pleasure of hosting Kevin Painchaud, a distinguished photojournalist from Lookout Santa Cruz, whose impactful work has recently earned him and his team a Pulitzer Prize for breaking news and him a Photo of the Year.

Kevin is not just a photojournalist; he is a storyteller who captures the essence of human experiences through his lens. With accolades including the California Journalism Awards’ News Photo of the Year and an Emmy nomination, Kevin’s work has graced the pages of major news outlets such as ABC, CBS, and CNN. His journey into photography began in his youth, sparked by a passion for skateboarding and the captivating black-and-white images taken by a friend.

Kevin’s love for photography took a transformative turn after a serious car accident during his sophomore year of high school. The experience left him in a coma for four days, but it also gave him a renewed perspective on life and photography.

A Shift in Perspective: After waking up, Kevin felt an overwhelming gratitude for life and a newfound empathy for others. This experience changed how he approached photography, allowing him to see people not as strangers but as individuals with unique stories.

Engaging with Subjects: Kevin emphasizes the importance of building rapport with his subjects. By showing genuine interest in their lives, he creates a trust that allows him to capture authentic moments through his camera.

Kevin’s work at Lookout Santa Cruz has been pivotal, especially during challenging times for the community. The organization, which operates with a small team of reporters and editors, focuses on delivering local news that resonates with its audience.

In early 2023, Santa Cruz faced extreme weather conditions that tested the resilience of its residents and the dedication of its news team. Here’s how Kevin and his colleagues rose to the occasion:

Team Dynamics: Lookout Santa Cruz consists of six reporters, three editors, and Kevin as the sole photojournalist. This tight-knit group worked collaboratively to cover the devastating storms that hit the area, causing significant damage and disruption.

Community Connection: The team’s commitment to providing accurate and timely information was crucial for residents who were scared and uncertain about the unfolding events. Kevin’s on-the-ground reporting helped bridge the gap between the community and the information they desperately needed.

Kevin highlighted the importance of local journalism, especially in times of crisis. The community relied on Lookout Santa Cruz for updates, and the team’s dedication to their work played a significant role in their Pulitzer Prize-winning coverage.

Real-Time Reporting: Kevin often took on the dual role of photographer and reporter, capturing images and conducting interviews simultaneously. This hands-on approach ensured that the stories being told were not only accurate but also deeply connected to the community’s experiences.

A Sense of Duty: Despite the exhausting demands of working through the storms for three months, Kevin and his team felt an obligation to their community. They worked tirelessly, often putting in 12-hour days, to ensure that residents were kept informed and supported during the crisis.

The culmination of Kevin’s hard work and dedication came when Lookout Santa Cruz was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for breaking news coverage. The announcement was unexpected, and the emotions that followed were profound.

A Surprising Announcement: Kevin’s managing editor, Tamsin, had secretly submitted their work for the Pulitzer without informing the team. When she announced the news during a mandatory meeting, the initial reaction was disbelief, quickly followed by tears of joy and celebration.

A Personal Triumph: For Kevin, winning the Pulitzer was not just a professional milestone; it was a deeply emotional experience that validated his journey as a photojournalist. It reaffirmed that his work mattered and had a significant impact on the community.

Kevin discussed the emotional challenges faced by photojournalists, particularly when witnessing trauma and hardship in the communities they cover. He reflected on how the Pulitzer win served as a cathartic moment, allowing him to confront his own insecurities and affirm the importance of his work.

The Constant Struggle: Despite the accolades, Kevin acknowledged the ongoing struggle many photojournalists face regarding the value of their work. The profession is evolving, and the pressure to prove the significance of visual storytelling remains.

Finding Purpose: Winning the Pulitzer Prize reinforced Kevin’s belief that photojournalism is vital. It demonstrated that even small, community-focused news outlets can make a difference and be recognized for their efforts.

Kevin Painchaud’s journey and experiences serve as a powerful reminder of the impact that photojournalism can have on communities. Through empathy, dedication, and a passion for storytelling, photojournalists like Kevin help us understand the world around us better.

To hear more about Kevin’s story and the incredible work of Lookout Santa Cruz, listen to the full episode of 10 Frames Per Second on 10FPS.net or wherever you get your podcasts.

For more insights into the world of photojournalism, subscribe to our podcast and join us each week for new episodes. Don’t forget to check out our previous episodes at WLOY.org, where you can explore the stories of other talented photojournalists.

Previous Episode: George Steinmetz          Next Episode: Latoya Ruby Frazier

The post Episode 128: Kevin Painchaud (Breaking News Photography) first appeared on A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.