Matthew Smith's onmason

Chapter 6 of “Journalism Next” focuses on the photography element of journalism. As we move into the digital age, there has been a sort of shift in traditional photography wisdom. You can rapidly take pictures and upload them, even alter them with editing tools.

However, one thing remains constant in all of this. It is always better to snap a natural photograph of an event than force one by manipulating people and objects for a desired pose.

Possibly the greatest advantage of photographs is that they overcome language barriers. While many American citizens may not fully understand English, photographs provide them with a quick way to get some news. If the photographer really succeeded in their mission, a photograph can be news all by itself.

While journalism typically is most closely associated with writing, it is often photography that provides an emotional connection with the audience.

Chapter 5 of “Journalism Next” deals primarily with mobile journalism. Mobile journalism has been enhanced over the past few years with the rapid advancement of technology, particularly the cell phone. What used to require pounds and pounds of equipment can now be done with a high powered phone such as an iPhone or an Android.

The Benefits of Mobile Journalism

• Speed, news can get out from anywhere, instantly.
• The audience is increasingly mobile, so journalism must follow suit.
• The public is now involved in the media.

The Downside of Mobile Journalism

• There has been a reduced role of the “gatekeepers” of journalism.
• Photos and videos can be doctored or altered.

Everyone seems to have photo, video, and blogging capabilities on their phones and as such are well equipped journalists. In short, everyone can report news now, so the burden falls on us to validate it.