Some advice on getting started in photojournalism

By Patrick Oden

October 20, 2008 | A picture is worth a thousand words, and often a photojournalist can tell an entire story with one great shot. Action and emotion are seldom conveyed so accurately or intimately in words as they are through a single moment stolen from time.

So if you want to be a photojournalist, but you don't know where to start, don't worry, it's not as daunting as you might think. While USU doesn't have a photojournalism emphasis within the Journalism and Communication department, they do offer a beginning and advanced photojournalism class as well as opportunities through the Hard News Café class.

What do I need, and where do I begin you ask? The right equipment and a love of the job, says Cameron Peterson, photo editor of The Utah Statesman. "You have to become deeply involved," he said.

Assistant photo editor of The Utah Statesman, Tyler Larson, said he felt the best way to become a successful photojournalist was to shoot a lot, and get to know and learn from people already working in the field.

You have to start somewhere, and like any new endeavor, there is a learning curve to be expected. Not learning to work your equipment, said Larson, is the most common mistake made by those new to photojournalism, while Peterson thought being too passive was a hurdle many new photojournalist have a hard time overcoming.

To be a professional you have to act like a professional, said Peterson. "Dress the part, talk the part, and act the part." If you present yourself with confidence, others will have confidence in you and you will benefit from greater respect and increased opportunities.

While attitude and knowledge are essential, so is your equipment. Without the right equipment you can't do the job, but what is the right equipment? Larson recommends the Nikon D300 digital SLR camera body, a Nikon SB-600 on camera flash, and two interchangeable lenses, a 24-70mm f/2.8 and a 70-200mm f/2.8. This combination should allow you to shoot just about anything in any situation, including fast action sports. Total cost, about $5,500.

Peterson said that an aspiring photojournalist on a budget could get away with spending about $1,500. While his recommendation of the Canon EOS 40D kit, which includes the digital SLR camera body and a 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 lens, and a Canon 430 EX II Speedlight on camera flash will handle most situations, the limitations of this equipment will be seen when shooting indoor sports where a flash cannot be used or when a greater zoom range is needed.

These are just two opinions, and there are many. You may find it worthwhile to explore the internet and see what some other professionals think. Photo.net has a forum dedicated to equipment selection for photojournalists, and award-winning photojournalist Mark Hancock hosts a blog that offers a tremendous amount of information. Included on Hancock's site is a section titled "What's in the trunk", which explores a lot of the less often considered tools of the trade, seen by many, as must have items for the working photojournalist.

New vs. used? While sites like ebay and craigslist offer the opportunity to purchase used photo equipment for a fraction the price of new, photo equipment is delicate and easily damaged. Buying new offers the peace of mind that the equipment should be in perfect working condition and will include a warranty from the manufacturer in case of a manufacturer's defect. If you choose to go the route of purchasing used equipment, Peterson and Larson both agree that you should consider the old adage, buyer beware.

Fifteen bucks well spent: The AP Guide to Photojournalism, which can be purchased in the USU Bookstore or online, is considered by most working in the field as a must-read. The AP guide covers everything from etiquette to composition and may help you decide if photojournalism is for you. Another must-read is your owner's manuals.

Photojournalism can be fun and rewarding, offering many varied opportunities for employment, travel and cultural experiences. Do your research, select your equipment, never stop learning, but most importantly, get out there and have fun.

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