Generations: Probity in Photojournalism
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GENERATIONS: PROBITY IN PHOTOJOURNALISM?
With the existence of first-rate technology, depletion of society moral standards, and ethics for sale on the street corners, has the general public lost the original intent of a photograph? For photojournalists Wally and Win Mcnamee, a father and son who are well known and respected in the photojournalism field, probity reaches out through their photos with the presence of its own soul. Elizabeth Anstead, the author of the article, was all too convinced of this fact trying to expose an alter ego in photojournalism. The alter ego, that is all too often overshadowed by those of poor taste and more so as time goes by, receives the respect and glory that she surmises as overdue. Modern photographers tend to chase personal success, in turn placing a cover over the original story that a photograph portrays. A sigh of relief can be taken after reading her article, for it emphasizes the points that should be held of high importance in the area of “still memory”. She denuded the layers, empathizing with Wally and Win both; disclosing to the surface the passion they have for their profession directly out of their hearts and highly noted work, interpreting both factors into words. “They [editors] think that Ðfiddling with images is like wordsmithing, but its not the sameÐ I see this as one of the single biggest dangers to the integrity of photojournalism. People rely on us to present the story as it really happened. This is not fashion photography or the movies– if things dont look the way you want them too, then its the rub of the green!” stated Wally Win when asked about the “digital revolution”. As Elizabeth Anstead transits from the father to son, it is obvious the reiteration of views and standards written for both generations, the only difference appearing had been the use of higher technology. This proving that the honesty and intent behind a photo is only as pure as the photographer.
The collaboration of Wally and Win McNamee offers a unique perspective to photojournalism, providing an unchanging view on changing times. “I wanted to know what it was that made my father the way he isÐ… The internal strength and integrity that he hasÐ… I wanted to see if I could bring that out in myself. I wanted to do something that would make him proud of me.” Win Mcnamee stated while speaking on the idolism he has for his father. Turning through the assortment of photographs, it is evident the admiration Win has for his father, as