We live in a world of news. Every day we start or end the day by being interested in what is happening in the world around us. However, if we read only the text, we cannot fully imagine what has happened or is happening at the moment. This is where photojournalism comes in. Everything that happens around us is easier for us to perceive visually. Looking at a photo from the scene, we subconsciously transport ourselves to that moment and can clearly recreate the desired picture in our minds.
That’s why all important events today are accompanied by photos. And while journalists write texts, photojournalists take photos from the scene of an event, a photo report.
Photo reportage or reportage photography is a general term that characterizes photography in journalism. However, photojournalism is only one of the genres of photojournalism. Among them are photo fact and photo note, terms that are less common in our vocabulary. Their general characteristics are identical, so today we will focus on reportage photography.
- First of all, realize that this is a very exciting process, but you need to be resilient. You can work early in the morning and in the evening, in case there is an event that needs attention. To do this, in addition to the equipment, you should have a good and comfortable bag so that you can easily move around and change lenses if necessary. Often, photojournalists use a special lens belt or a so-called unloading system to keep everything they need at hand. A monopod, a tripod with a single support, is often used for reportage photography. It’s quite convenient to shoot reportage with it, because you can increase the shutter speed, unload your hands, and shoot from the desired angle;
- Also, you should definitely remember the rules of composition, “thirds of the frame” and lines, because, as we said above, this is a photo that should not be processed, and its author should be well acquainted with the theory of photography;
- And the most important thing for you is to capture the moment. The moment that can become a great picture on the cover of a magazine or newspaper. So don’t be afraid to take pictures. Catch the moment, change the angle to get what you want. Of course, it’s great when you get a good image from a single shot. However, this is not always the case. To do this, take a lot of pictures, look for an interesting moment to find what works for you;
- If you’re shooting in your hometown, you probably know where important events often take place. Go there and see where you can get a good view. In general, if you know in advance where the action will take place, then look around the area beforehand to find a good place to shoot from which you can catch a great shot;
- And, of course, if you need not just one photo, but a series of photos, then don’t forget about the plans. Always alternate between close-ups, medium shots, and general shots. A close-up is a great key to good reportage photography, because you can easily make a reference to the place and time. This way, the viewer can immediately understand where the event is taking place and when it is happening.