Exploring the Art of Photography with Elena Volkova

Welcome to our latest episode, where we delve into the fascinating world of photography with Ukrainian-born artist and educator, Elena Volkova. In a recent episode of the “10 Frames Per Second” podcast, hosted by Joe Giordano and Molly Roberts, our former co-host Elena shared her journey into photography, her unique artistic processes, and her ongoing projects.

Early Beginnings in Photography

Elena Volkova’s passion for photography began at a young age. Growing up in Soviet Ukraine, she was introduced to the magic of photography by her father. Her early experiences in developing and printing pictures in their bathroom left a lasting impression. This childhood fascination was rekindled when she moved to the United States and took darkroom photography classes.

Influences and Inspirations

Mastering Alternative Processes

Elena Volkova is known for her work with alternative photographic processes, particularly tintype. She learned this historic technique in 2019 and has since embraced the unknown elements and magic it brings to her art.

Why Tintype?

Notable Projects

Elena’s project in Anacostia, a historic neighborhood in Washington, D.C., involved creating community portraits using the wet collodion process. Despite challenges posed by COVID-19, the project was well-received and culminated in an exhibition showcasing over 100 plates.

Elena’s ongoing project, “The Me Before the War No Longer Exists: Ukrainian Portraits,” is deeply personal. As a Ukrainian, she captures the stories of displaced women and children, exploring themes of identity and resilience.

Challenges and Reflections

Elena discusses the challenges of teaching photography in the digital age, emphasizing the importance of intentionality and visual literacy. She also reflects on the evolving landscape of photography and the need for artists to be well-rounded storytellers.

Future Endeavors

Elena is working on publishing a photo book of her Ukrainian portraits and continues to seek funding for her projects. Her dedication to capturing authentic human experiences through photography remains unwavering.

Elena Volkova’s journey in photography is a testament to the power of art in exploring identity, community, and resilience. Her innovative use of alternative processes and commitment to storytelling make her a standout figure in the world of photography. Stay tuned for more updates on her inspiring work.

For more episodes of “10 Frames Per Second,”  listen on your favorite podcast platform. You can also explore back episodes here and on WLOY.org.

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Photojournalism, podcast, photography, photojournalists, Joe Giordano, Molly Roberts, Elena Volkova, Ukrainian artist, educator, liminality, subjectivity, domesticity, Ruby’s Grant, Baltimore Municipal Arts Society, Hamiltonian Artists, Maryland Center for History and Culture, Anacostia Arts Center, Stevenson University, darkroom photography, tintype, alternative processes, digital photography, wet collodion, community portraits, Anacostia, COVID-19, Ukrainian portraits, displacement, social practice, visual literacy.

The post Episode 147: Elena Volkova (Documentary Photography) first appeared on A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.

Welcome to our latest episode, where we delve into the intricate world of human-wildlife conflict in Africa. In a recent episode of the “10 Frames Per Second” podcast, hosts Joe Giordano and Molly Roberts had an enlightening conversation with Guillaume Bonn, a seasoned photojournalist and author of the book “Paradise Inc.“

Guillaume Bonn is a renowned photojournalist with over 15 years of experience contributing to prestigious publications like The New York Times and Vanity Fair. His work has taken him across 40 countries in Africa, covering critical issues such as:

Bonn’s latest book, “Paradise Inc.,” investigates the intentions and unexpected consequences of wildlife preservation efforts in Africa, offering a fresh perspective on the ongoing human-wildlife conflict.

Guillaume’s journey into photography began in his teenage years when his family returned to Africa. Influenced by his father’s passion for photography and a rich collection of magazines and books, Guillaume naturally gravitated towards the medium. His early inspirations included:

In “Paradise Inc.,” Bonn explores the complex relationship between humans and wildlife in Africa. Key points discussed in the podcast include:

Guillaume Bonn emphasizes the power of photography in raising awareness and driving change. His book combines stunning visuals with compelling narratives to highlight the beauty and fragility of Africa’s wildlife. Key elements of his photographic approach include:

The podcast discussion also touched on the challenges of funding and implementing effective conservation strategies. Guillaume argues that:

Guillaume Bonn’s work in “Paradise Inc.” is a testament to the power of storytelling in addressing critical global issues. By combining photography with insightful narratives, he hopes to inspire a deeper understanding and more effective solutions for human-wildlife conflict in Africa.

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Photojournalism, podcast, Joe Giordano, Molly Roberts, Guillaume Bonn, The New York Times, Vanity Fair, Darfur, illegal ivory trade, DRC, UN peacekeepers, African continent, Paradise Inc., wildlife preservation, climate change, sustainable solutions, Madagascar, National Geographic, documentary photography, fashion photographers, Peter Beard, Dan Eldon, Somalia, Reuters, humanitarian crisis, conflict photography, Maasai tribe, human-wildlife conflict, conservation, poaching, Maasai displacement

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Welcome to our latest blog post, where we delve into the fascinating world of photojournalism through the lens of renowned documentary photographer and filmmaker, Seamus Murphy. In a recent episode of the “10 Frames Per Second” podcast, Murphy shared insights into his career, his approach to photography, and his thoughts on the evolving landscape of photojournalism. Let’s explore some of the key takeaways from this engaging conversation.

Seamus Murphy is a London-based documentary photographer and filmmaker, celebrated for his intimate and poetic realism. As a member of the Photo Agency VII, Murphy has won seven World Press Awards for his work in various conflict zones, including Afghanistan, Gaza, and Sierra Leone. His work is featured in prestigious collections such as the Getty Museum and the Imperial War Museum.

Murphy’s journey into photojournalism began with a communications course in college, which eventually led him to freelance photography in the late 1980s. His breakthrough came with a story about children riding horses in inner-city Dublin, which was published by the Independent newspaper and later picked up by a Swedish newspaper.

Murphy’s work is characterized by a deep sense of storytelling, whether through still images or films. He emphasizes the importance of capturing moments that convey a narrative, often drawing parallels between different cultures and experiences.

Murphy’s experiences in conflict zones have profoundly influenced his perspective on photography. He discusses the impact of covering conflicts and how it has shaped his approach to documenting his own country, Ireland, in his book “The Republic.”

In the podcast, Murphy also touches on the future of photojournalism, expressing concerns about the rise of AI and its impact on truth in media. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining authenticity and humanism in storytelling.

Seamus Murphy’s work offers a compelling look into the world of photojournalism, blending artistry with a deep commitment to storytelling. His insights remind us of the power of photography to connect us with diverse human experiences and the importance of preserving truth in an ever-evolving media landscape.

For more insights and discussions on photojournalism, be sure to check out the “10 Frames Per Second” podcast, where new episodes drop every Tuesday. You can listen on 10fps.net or catch back episodes on WLOY.org.

Photojournalism, podcast, Seamus Murphy, documentary photographer, filmmaker, London, Photo Agency 7, World Press Awards, Afghanistan, Gaza, Lebanon, Sierra Leone, Peru, UK, Ireland, Getty Museum, Imperial War Museum, FRAC, Avignon, France, A Darkness Visible, The Hollow of the Hand, The Republic, Strange Love, Loyola Radio, WLOY, Loyola Maryland, PJ Harvey, Patti Smith, Trump, Putin.

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Welcome to our latest episode, where we delve into the world of visual storytelling and photojournalism. In this weeks podcast, we explore insights from Elodie Maillet Storm, CEO of CatchLight, as she discusses the evolution of visual journalism and the innovative approaches CatchLight is taking to support this vital field.

Introduction to CatchLight

CatchLight is a pioneering visual-first media organization that leverages the power of visual storytelling to inform, connect, and transform communities. Under the leadership of Elodie Maillet Storm, CatchLight is addressing the challenges faced by visual journalists in today’s rapidly changing media landscape.

Elodie Maillet Storm: A Journey into Visual Storytelling

Elodie Maillet Storm’s journey into the world of photography and visual storytelling is both unique and inspiring:

The Mission of CatchLight

CatchLight’s mission is to harness the unique power of images to inform and engage audiences. The organization addresses the paradox of increased visual communication in society, despite the media ecosystem’s de-investment in visual journalism.

Key Challenges in Visual Journalism

Innovative Programs and Initiatives

CatchLight has developed several programs to support visual journalists and newsrooms:

Global Fellowship Program

Local Visual Desk Program

Expanding the Reach of Visual Storytelling

CatchLight is committed to expanding the reach and impact of visual storytelling through:

The CatchLight Visual Storytelling Summit

CatchLight hosts an annual Visual Storytelling Summit, bringing together photographers, journalists, and media professionals to explore the future of visual storytelling. The summit is free and open to the public, fostering collaboration and innovation in the field.

Conclusion

CatchLight, under the leadership of Elodie Maillet Storm, is making significant strides in supporting visual journalism and storytelling. Through innovative programs, partnerships, and educational initiatives, CatchLight is ensuring that the power of visual storytelling continues to inform and engage audiences worldwide.

For more insights and updates on visual storytelling, stay tuned to our blog and explore the transformative work being done by CatchLight and its partners.

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The post Episode 144: Elodie Maillet Storm (CatchLight) first appeared on A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.

In the realm of photojournalism, Moriah Ratner shines as a storyteller who captures the essence of human experience through her lens. Her work goes beyond mere documentation, delving into the emotional depths of her subjects. During this episode Moriah shares her journey and the profound impact of her project “Live Like Lola.”

Moriah’s journey began at Syracuse University, where she studied photojournalism and psychology. Her interest in how children cope with trauma led to the creation of “Live Like Lola,” a photo essay documenting the life of Lola Munoz, a preteen with terminal brain cancer. Initially a class assignment, the project quickly became a mission to portray Lola as more than just a patient. Moriah aimed to capture Lola’s spirit and the universal experiences of being a preteen. Her dedication earned her recognition, including the Lena Grant from Women’s Photojournalists of Washington.

During the podcast, Moriah discusses the emotional challenges she faced while working on the project. The anticipatory grief of knowing Lola’s prognosis was overwhelming. With guidance from mentors like Lynn Johnson, Moriah learned the importance of self-care and processing grief through therapy, exercise, and journaling. On book in particular titled Trauma Stewardship: An Everyday Guide to Caring for Self While Caring for Others by Laura van Dernoot Lipsky has been incredibly helpful for her self-care journey.  Moriah’s experience highlights the emotional toll of photojournalism and the need for photographers to balance their well-being with their commitment to their subjects.

Even after Lola’s passing, Moriah remains connected with her family. She is working on a follow-up project exploring how Lola’s family integrates her memory into their daily lives. This continuation delves into themes of grief and legacy, encouraging open conversations about loss. Moriah’s work exemplifies the power of storytelling to foster understanding and empathy.

Moriah Ratner’s journey as a photojournalist is a testament to the impact of visual storytelling. Her dedication to capturing life’s essence, even in its most fragile moments, highlights the role photojournalists play in shaping our understanding of the world. Through projects like “Live Like Lola,” Moriah preserves memories and inspires others to approach storytelling with empathy and authenticity. Her work serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the irreplaceable value of human connection and the enduring power of the human spirit.

#photojournalism #documentaryphotography #narrativestorytelling #griefprocessing #humanexperience

Previous Episode: Lorissa Reinhart

The post Episode 143: Moriah Ratner (Documentary Photography) first appeared on A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.

On this episode Molly Roberts and author Lorissa Rinehart delve into the fascinating life and career of Dickey Chapelle, a pioneering female war correspondent whose story has remained largely untold. Rinehart’s book, “First to the Front: The Untold Story of Dickey Chapelle, Trailblazing Female War Correspondent,” sheds light on Chapelle’s remarkable journey.

Dickey Chapelle was a trailblazing photojournalist known for her fearless reporting from war zones. She covered seven wars in five years, making her mark in a field dominated by men. Despite the challenges she faced, Chapelle’s work remains a testament to her courage and dedication.

Despite her significant contributions, Chapelle’s story has remained largely untold. According to Rinehart, this is partly because she was a woman writing about people of color fighting for freedom, narratives that did not align with the dominant Cold War narrative in America.

Chapelle’s legacy is one of courage, empathy, and a relentless pursuit of truth. Her work continues to inspire journalists today, reminding us of the importance of telling untold stories.

Dickey Chapelle’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have in the world of journalism. Her dedication to telling the stories of those fighting for freedom is a legacy that continues to inspire. We hope this post encourages you to learn more about this remarkable woman and her contributions to photojournalism.

Dickey is remembered annually by the Marine Corps League with an award given in her name “to extend recognition to a woman who has contributed substantially to the morale, welfare and well-being of the officers and men and women of the United States Marine Corps.”

#photojournalism #femalejournalist #dedication #innovation

(this is an archive episode)

Previous Episode: Sidney and Michelle Monroe   Next Episode: Moriah Ratner

The post Episode 80: Lorissa Reinhart (Dickey Chapelle’s Legacy) first appeared on A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.

Photojournalism uniquely bridges the worlds of art and storytelling, capturing moments that resonate deeply with audiences. The Monroe Gallery, a leader in this field, has dedicated itself to showcasing the transformative power of images. In this episode our hosts explored this fascinating realm with Sydney and Michelle Monroe, founders of the Monroe Gallery. Celebrating over two decades in Santa Fe, the Monroes shared their insights into the significance of photojournalism and their preparations for the upcoming AIPAD show in New York.

The Monroe Gallery’s journey began with a pivotal meeting with Alfred Eisenstadt, a founding photographer of Life Magazine. This encounter sparked Sydney and Michelle Monroe’s passion for photojournalism, leading them to recognize its potential within the gallery system. Their mission became to elevate photojournalistic images from magazine pages to gallery walls, transforming them into enduring pieces of art and historical evidence.

Photojournalism, as the Monroes describe, is about more than capturing moments; it’s about documenting history and inspiring change. The images they curate are visually striking and carry deep social and political relevance. From war scenes to tender moments of love, these photographs tell timeless stories. The Monroes emphasize the importance of context, ensuring viewers understand the historical and emotional backdrop of each image.

Presenting sensitive subjects is a challenge the Monroe Gallery navigates with care. The Monroes provide context to balance human suffering with stories of heroism and hope, offering a comprehensive view of the human experience. This thoughtful curation is evident in exhibitions like Grey Villet’s work on the Loving family, highlighting photojournalism’s societal impact. It is also seen in their latest special exhibit titled “WWII – Eighty Years”, which will be presented at AIPAD this year. The exhibit highlights the historic triumphs and devastating losses of the war that were captured by thousands of wartime photographers. It is a reminder that we must learn from our history so that these same actions may never be repeated.

In today’s evolving media landscape, the Monroe Gallery supports contemporary photojournalists, many of whom rely on print sales to fund their work. The Monroes represent a diverse range of voices, from legends to emerging talents like Eugene Tapahe, whose “Jingle Dress Project” beautifully combines art and journalism. This dedication ensures the gallery remains a vibrant platform for storytelling.

The Monroe Gallery’s journey underscores the enduring power of photojournalism. Through thoughtful curation and commitment, Sydney and Michelle Monroe have created a space where images challenge perceptions and inspire change. As they prepare for the AIPAD show, the Monroes continue to champion photojournalism as both art and historical record, inviting all to explore the profound impact of these stories.

#photojournalism #photogallery #exibits #AIPAD

Previous Episode: Ron Haviv  Next Episode: Lorissa Reinhart

The post Episode 142: Sidney and Michelle Monroe (Photo Gallery) first appeared on A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.

On this episode of “10 Frames Per Second” we delve into the world of photojournalism through the lens of Ron Haviv, a renowned photojournalist and co-founder of the VII Agency. In this episode Haviv shared his journey, experiences, and his thoughts on the evolving landscape of photojournalism.

Ron Haviv’s entry into photojournalism wasn’t a childhood dream but rather a journey of discovery during his university years. Influenced by hobbyist photographers in his life and a job with a fashion photographer, Haviv found himself drawn to the world of photography. His career took off with a chance encounter and a generous offer from fellow photojournalist Chris Morris, leading to his first international assignment in Panama.

Haviv’s work has had significant impacts, both positive and challenging:

Haviv co-founded the VII Agency to give photographers more control over their work and careers. The agency, which emerged at the dawn of the digital age, has adapted to the changing landscape of photojournalism by focusing on embracing digital technology to streamline operations. His non-profit initative, the VII Foundation, helps support long form journalism projects while providing a free education in visual journalism.

Haviv emphasizes the critical role of education in photojournalism. With the democratization of photography, it’s essential to train photographers in storytelling and business. This is so that they can tell great stories with their work and draw in clients that will be willing to pay for their pictures and services.

One of Haviv’s notable projects is “The Lost Rolls,” a book and public archive exploring memory and photography. This project involved developing forgotten rolls of film, leading to deep reflection on the stories that were captured and what memories would have been attached to them. Now Haviv is encouraging the public to take part in the project by contributing their own lost rolls and stories.

Ron Haviv’s journey and insights offer a profound look into the world of photojournalism. From the power of images to influence political decisions to the challenges of ensuring their impact, Haviv’s experiences highlight the complexities and responsibilities of being a photojournalist. As the industry continues to evolve, education, mentorship, and innovative projects like “The Lost Rolls” remain vital in preserving the integrity and impact of photojournalism.

#photojournalism #conflictphotography #documentaryphotography #memory

Previous Episode: Rosalind Fox Solomon  Next Episode: Sidney and Michelle Monroe

The post Episode 141: Ron Haviv (Documentary Photography) first appeared on A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.

Welcome to our latest episode, where we delve into the fascinating world of photography with the legendary photojournalist, Rosalind Fox Solomon. At 94 years old, Rosalind has spent over 50 years capturing the essence of human vulnerability through her lens.

Rosalind Fox Solomon is a renowned photographer known for her unflinching gaze at human vulnerability. Her work is celebrated worldwide and is part of the collections of over 50 museums. She has received numerous accolades, including a Guggenheim Fellowship and a National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship. Her photography was represented by Bruce Silverstein until 2021 and it is currently being represented by MUUS.

Rosalind began her photography journey in her late 30s, a time when many women of her generation were focused on family responsibilities. She studied under Lisette Model, who encouraged her to “always go closer,” a piece of advice that has influenced her work significantly.

– Diane Arbus and Robert Frank: Rosalind cites Diane Arbus and Robert Frank as major influences, appreciating their revolutionary approach to photography.

– A Woman I Once Knew: Rosalind’s latest book is a unique autobiography that combines self-portraits with personal writings. It spans 50 years of her life, exploring themes of body acceptance and self-examination.

– Keep Working: Rosalind advises young photographers to continue working on their craft, as persistence eventually leads to recognition and opportunities.

Rosalind’s work is not only a testament to her talent but also a source of inspiration for future generations. Her archives are preserved by organizations like the MUUS Collection, ensuring that her legacy continues to influence and inspire. Rosalind’s journey is a remarkable example of how passion and dedication can lead to a fulfilling and impactful career. Her insights and experiences offer valuable lessons for photographers and artists alike.

#photojournalism #acceptance #humanvuneralibily

Previous Episode: Jackie Sofia  Next Episode: Ron Haviv

The post Episode 140: Rosalind Fox Solomon (Documentary Photography) first appeared on A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.

In this archive episode Jackie Sofia, a reporter, producer, and educator in documentary media, shared her journey into participatory media and its profound impact on refugee communities in the Middle East and North America.

Jackie Sofia’s path to documentary photography was unconventional. With a background in Middle Eastern studies from Johns Hopkins University, her curiosity about the region led her to Jordan on a Fulbright Fellowship in 2011. Initially focused on researching the long-term effects of domestic violence on women in Amman, she faced challenges in accessing the necessary information. This led her to volunteer as a yoga instructor in Gaza Camp, a refugee camp in Jordan, where she connected deeply with the community.

The camp, home to descendants of Palestinian refugees from the 1967 war, became a pivotal part of Jackie’s Fulbright experience. Her involvement in social enterprises and consulting work for nonprofits highlighted the stereotypes and challenges faced by the Palestinian community in Jordan. Determined to change the narrative, Jackie turned to media as a tool to tell the stories of these resilient individuals.

Empowering Through Participatory Media

The Narrative Projects emerged as a platform to provide refugees with the tools to document their own stories. Jackie, alongside several women from the camp, initiated a photo workshop to teach photography as a means of self-expression and storytelling. This participatory approach empowers the photographers and offers a more authentic representation of refugee communities.

One poignant example from the workshop is the story of Amna, a participant who documented her mother’s struggle with accessibility after losing a leg to deep vein thrombosis. Through photography, Amna found a therapeutic outlet to process her experiences and share her mother’s story. This initiative underscores the transformative power of participatory media, allowing individuals to reclaim their narratives and challenge prevailing stereotypes.

Jackie’s work extends beyond the Middle East to Baltimore, where she collaborates with resettled refugee communities. The challenges faced by refugees in Baltimore, such as navigating public transportation and repaying resettlement costs, highlight the need for robust support systems. Despite these obstacles, organizations like the Mira Kitchen Collective and the Refugee Youth Project provide vital resources and opportunities for refugees to thrive.

In Baltimore, Jackie works closely with Iman El-Shehab, a Syrian refugee resettled in 2016. Iman’s journey, marked by resilience and determination, exemplifies the struggles and triumphs of refugees seeking a new beginning. Through participatory media, Jackie and Iman collaborate to share her story, offering a deeper understanding of the refugee experience.

The Narrative Projects and similar initiatives demonstrate the profound impact of participatory media in amplifying the voices of marginalized communities. By empowering refugees to tell their own stories, these projects challenge stereotypes and foster a more nuanced understanding of global issues. As Jackie Sofia’s work illustrates, storytelling is a powerful tool for change, bridging cultural divides and fostering empathy. In a world where media narratives often dominate, the stories of individuals like Amna and Iman remind us of the resilience and strength within refugee communities, urging us to listen, learn, and support their journeys.

This is an archive episode with hosts Joe Giordano and Elena Volkova.

#photojournalism #refugees #refugeeexperiences #storytelling

Previous Episode: Steve Parke   Next Episode: Rosalind Fox Solomon

The post Episode 68: Jackie Sofia (Documentary Photography) first appeared on A Photojournalism Podcast for Everyone.