14 inspiring and useful photojournalism tips

1) Always have your camera with you
Keep your camera on Program mode with a full memory card and battery, in case something happens quickly and unexpectedly (sometimes even when you are not working or on your way to another story) so that you shoot immediately. Although I shoot using Manual mode, my camera is set on Program when in my bag, so I can react quickly if necessary and always get the shot!
 
2) Compose carefully
Most people only look at a picture (whether it is in a newspaper or magazine etc) for only 3 seconds. So, don’t think what you can put in the picture but think if what is in the picture is really necessary to tell the story. Leave out unnecessary subjects, distractions or disturbing objects, that are not part of the story you’re trying to tell. Always concentrate on your background – use your aperture to throw distracting objects out of focus.
 
3) Shoot with your heart
A good photojournalist has a lot of empathy and can put him/herself in the subject’s shoes. If you don’t feel you won’t be able to evoke emotion from your viewer. This said, you still need to be strong enough to get the shot, even if it is difficult – remember that your images might change someone’s life.
“Photography takes an instant out of time, altering life by holding it still.”
Dorothea Lange (1895-1965)
 
4) Stay neutral
Always try and tell the story as true to life and honestly as possible. It’s imperative to stay neutral, don’t get personally involved if possible. Get the shot, but before you submit it to your news desk or give it away for publication, consider if it being published will do more harm or good. Yes, you still want your job, but ultimately your by-line will be under that picture and ultimately the responsibility lies with the photographer – a lot of newspapers and other publications are just after sensation. Remember there is a big difference between a photojournalist and the paparazzi.

5) Be prepared
Any aspiring photojournalist must know that they will probably see a lot of unsettling scenes and heartache, unfortunately it’s just part of life. Luckily being a photojournalist means you will also capture the wonderful things in life, but just be prepared to see sadness as well – and know that by seeing the heartache of others you will be touched as well.

Always get the shot but always be a nice person and polite and never get in the way of police, emergency servies etc, trying to do their job. If you get to an accident scene or extreme situation and you are first or are asked to help, it’s your duty to help first and then get your shot. No life, including yours, is worth a shot. Remember you are a human being first, a photojournalist second.