All felt it—when you outgrow your old clothes or shoes and they start to pinch, and the sleeves no longer fit. Turns out, the same can happen in a career. Once upon a time, there was a family photographer who started to feel boxed in by the limits of background, pose, color, and composition, and suddenly felt the need to add more meaning. When I don't know something, I go out and find someone who can teach me. And it’s true what they say: when the student is ready, the teacher appears. And just like that, a year flew by in the "Photographer as a Storyteller" course at CEH photo school. Our teacher, Sergey Maximishin, often says our job is tough. If you ask me how it went, I’ll tell you—it was challenging. Over the year, each of us worked on four photo projects, each one a visual story that was seen, captured, and told. And I learned that photography isn’t the only skill a photojournalist needs.
Being a photojournalist is about way more than just snapping pictures; it's about being an investigator, an interviewer, and a whole lot more.
We’re not just capturing moments—we’re uncovering stories. We dig deep, ask the right questions, and piece together narratives that might otherwise slip by unnoticed. It’s like being part detective, part therapist, and all-around storyteller. Every shot we take is backed by hours, sometimes days, of research and prep. Out in the field, we often become interviewers, drawing out the stories and emotions of the people we photograph. We listen carefully because every word and detail adds depth to the story we’re trying to tell. Building trust with our subjects is key, ensuring their stories are told truthfully and with respect. But our job doesn’t stop there. We’re also editors, going through hundreds of shots to find the one that really captures the essence of the story. We think like designers, making sure every part of the frame contributes to the narrative. And ultimately, we’re storytellers, blending images and words to create a compelling story that resonates. At the end of the day, being a photojournalist is about so much more than just taking pictures. We’re investigators, storytellers, and advocates, all rolled into one, committed to shining a light on the truth and giving voice to those who might not otherwise be heard. It’s a tough, multifaceted job, but it’s one we take on with passion and dedication.
I'm just at the start of this adventure, and I’m already hooked. The more I dive in, the more I realize there’s a whole world of stories out there waiting to be told. I can’t wait to see where this crazy ride takes me next. There’s a lot to learn, sure—but I’m ready to stumble, learn, and laugh my way through it. The road ahead might be bumpy, but bring it on—I’m in for the long haul!