Photography: the art and science of creating durable images by recording light. Many people use photography as an expressive medium, others use it to showcase news and current events. I personally use photography as a form of expression and, of course, for fun. Photojournalists, however, have a difficult time perusing their career due to the standards and morals of the viewers. For example, during the Ferguson riots, many photojournalists traveled to Missouri to photograph the event for viewers. While there, Joshua Lott (Getty Images) captured this photograph of a woman having milk poured on her face after being sprayed with tear gas.
Many critics have come out to that the photographer had a moral duty to help that woman, and those surrounding her, instead of merely photographing the image. The same goes for photographer Dimitris Michalakis (Reuters) who took this image of migrants struggling out of the Turkish coast:
I agree that, as moral citizens, we have an obligation to help people in need. I diverge from popular belief when people argue that photographers have a moral duty to help those around them. In the instance of these two photos, there were surrounding people helping those who were struggling, the photographer did not leave anyone in danger. Moreover, it is the photographer's job to photograph these situations. They are not being paid to help, but rather to photograph.
I believe it is of the utmost importance that photographers fulfill their duty. Many would argue that looking at these images is immoral and just plain wrong. I would argue, however, that these images expand the mind of the viewers. Without these images, and photography as an art, people would never be able to see the situation and witness it almost firsthand. It expands people’s viewpoint and makes them see what is really occurring. Many people read about the migrant crisis in Europe and the Middle East, but no one goes over to see and watch it first-hand. By looking at these images, people are exposed to the true nature of these crises. Citizens are able to see what is occurring that their horizons are expanded. I believe that it would be immoral to not take these images, as it makes citizens aware of the atrocities and events that are occurring around the world. It opens people’s eyes to that they can see personal stories, situations, and experiences.
As a photographer, I encourage my fellow creators to go out into your community with the goal of making a difference and opening people's eyes. Don't be afraid of people questioning your subject, content, or skills, but rather photograph with the purpose of change in mind. Open people's eyes to the experiences and situations of those around you.
