War Photographer Reflection

The documentary was very insightful. I was not as much surprised by the life of a photojournalist, as I was very intrigued. Throughout the documentary, we see Nachtwey in the middle of very gruesome, settings. Such as walking through what appears to be copious corpses on the floor. In one shot we see the cameras following a few women as they visit the remains of their destroyed home. It surprised me that people were so willing and accepting of the photographer during these hard moments. I wondered if the same people in these same situations would be as receptive to a reporter.

Overall, I thought that the photos presented in the piece were compelling, and successfully evoked emotion. The photo I thought were best were of the man who lost his limbs, that was now living on the side of a train track with his 2 children and wife. I thought this photo would intrigue the viewer, and would entice them to learn more about the mans story.

Finally, I do think that photography, as well as all forms of journalism play a large role in shaping world events. In the beginning of the documentary, Nachtwey says that during the Vietnam War, photographs revealed the truth, and brutality of the war. By showing American citizens what was happening, it shed light on the issue.  Society must rely on journalism, specifically photojournalism because, as journalist we are suppose to capture what others want or need to see but can’t be present for. I believe that as long as journalists continue work for a purpose, they will continue to shape the ideas and beliefs of the world.