Photojournalism

The aim of this course is to analyse the role of photojournalism and mass media in society in a historical and contemporary perspective. You will explore, through practical assignments and experience, the making of news photographs and photo essays. In addition, you will learn how to read visual information and learn the process of layout of images. Photojournalism has played a vital role in shaping the visual memory of our societies, and continues to do so through newer emerging media such as the internet and blogs, as well as traditional means, such as magazines, books and exhibitions. The role of each of these media and their relative strengths and weaknesses will be explored.

The course will take a look at the structure and function of a photo essay, the impact of the image, how to place an essay with a magazine, and continue finding new subjects to photograph. Focus will be on spot news coverage, sports coverage, features, library supply, agencies and their role in the process of an image and the role of the internet in mass communication. Ethical and legal implications of taking someone's photograph will be investigated and debated with specific case studies used as examples.