The Art of Photojournalism

Photo By: Marc Riboud

Year Created: 1967

Rule of Thirds: The main subject of the photograph is at the far right of the frame. If she was centered, the photo would be much less dramatic and the viewer would not be able to see the other subjects in the photo, just the weapons pointing at the woman. The rule of thirds guides the viewer's eyes through this photo.

Texture: The image is grainy and rough-looking in texture around the woman in the front of the photo, also creating a dramatic effect. The photo also almost fades out into a smooth blur behind her in the background. The age of the photo can also be determined by this type of texture.

Use of Lines: The lines working with the rule of thirds in this image draw attention to the main subject of the photo. Along with the photo being divided into thirds, with the subject at the far right, the use of lines also guides the viewer's eyes from the left to right side where the main subject is, in this particular photograph.

Why I Chose This Image: The main subject of this photo is an American female protesting during the Vietnam War. Females protesting during this time period was considered a brave action, making the image very powerful, which I greatly appreciate. The photojournalist captured the innocence but also courage of this woman; it is an emotional photograph. 

Photo By: Dorothea Lange

Year Created: 1936

Obvious Main Subject: The main subject takes up most of this photograph. Very little of the image is background. This particular photo is a major close-up of the woman and children leaning on her.

Black and White: This image is in black and white only, which was not the photographer's choice. Photos were only taken in black and white during this time period, however, it definitely works well with this photograph. The lack of color sets the depressing mood for this image and also keeps the seriousness within the photograph.

Subject's Expression: The main subject in this photograph appears to be relaxed and does not necessarily pose for the photographer. Even though this picture is a close-up, it almost seems as if the photographer is not noticed by the subject. The subject's body language and facial expression also speaks for the Great Depression time period. 

Why I Chose This Image: This photo is the icon for photojournalism, in my opinion. This particular photograph comes to my mind when I hear or think of the word "photojournalism." This picture has always been meaningful to me since I have known of it.

Photo By: John Reekie

Year Created: 1865

Texture: The texture of this photograph is grainy and rough, which creates a dramatic effect and also speaks for the time period in which the photo was taken. The texture tells the viewer the setting and age of the photograph.

Background Compliments: The background of this particular photo helps complete the picture as a whole. Behind the main subject, there are men digging for the burial of the corpses. The details of this photo make much more sense with the background in addition to the main subject with the corpses in front of him.

Feelings Created By Image: This image would immediately capture the attention of many because of its shocking and disturbing content. The sight of the skulls and other parts of the dead bodies is very hard to see and would bring many negative emotions to viewers. This photograph is definitely one that would create a lasting impact on people based on the feelings or emotions it creates.

Why I Chose This Image: I was immediately shocked when I came across this photograph. It was very disturbing to me to see the dead bodies, however, it truly speaks for the Civil War time period in which the photo was taken, which I found rather interesting. This particular photo was taken at the site of a massive battle, and it is a raw image of what war really looks like.