Every so often I will go back and watch two interesting slideshows on the New York Times, one which followed photographer Damon Winter on Obama’s campaign trail, the other following a group of photographers who were covering the Republican and Democratic conventions. I’m continually fascinated by the content of these slideshows, especially by the behind-the-scenes perspective that is offered through the pairing of the imagery with the photographers’ narration.
I tend to avoid talking about politics, a conversational avoidance that is due in part to the fact that I’m a bit of an idealist and I’m bothered by the spectacle that shrouds so much political media coverage. However, despite my dislike for the glitz and glamour of politics I can’t help but be fascinated by the imagery that documents it. Of the two slideshows that I referenced above, the photos that interested me most were the photos of the two conventions featuring the protests and the set that explained the photographers’ vision. I’m not sure what it was, but these photos provided me with a stronger connection to what took place during those events, more so than any other media coverage on the American election. Perhaps it is because these photos were taken in the midst of all the activity. The photographers were right there, they were experiencing what was going on.
When I’m photographing events at work it’s those type of images that provide me with inspiration. I’m not always able to photograph as dynamic of events, but I do what I can to make the every day seem a little bit more interesting.
I am really fascinated with the power of photography to tell stories. This is a topic we have discussed many times in my classes on diplomacy. Great post.