How to Interview a Photojournalist
Photojournalists capture world events through their camera lenses. They submit their photographs to news outlets, which share the images with the public. Photojournalists work as freelancers and as full-time employees. Interviewing a photojournalist can give you insight into the work and the particular events that the photographer has observed.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Contact a photojournalist. Tell him you would like to interview him, and explain why. Schedule a time to meet in person or, if that's not possible, to talk by telephone. Be aware of how much time he has to spend with you.
-
2
Prepare for the interview by reviewing the photojournalist's work. Note the names of the publications in which his work has appeared, how long he has been in the business and whether he has won any awards. Determine if he specializes in a certain subject. Photojournalists cover wars and sporting events. They photograph car accidents and wildflowers. Topics can vary widely.
-
-
3
Make a list of questions that you would like the photojournalist to answer during the interview. For instance, how did he get involved in this type of work, what appeals to him about taking pictures, what obstacles has he encountered and what did he do before becoming a photojournalist? Gather copies of photographs he has taken. These can act as jumping-off points for further questions: What inspired a certain picture? What was happening as he took it? Would he have done anything differently?
-
4
You will also need a notebook and a pen. If you don't think you will be able to write down his comments fast enough, arrange to take a recorder with you. But obtain the photojournalist's permission before you record him.
-
5
Begin the interview by explaining again why you arranged it. Let him know what interests you about his work and specify any aspects of his career that you might like to focus on during your meeting. Ask him the questions you prepared in advance, but be ready to deviate from them if he takes you down interesting new paths of discussion that you couldn't have anticipated.
-
6
Thank the photojournalist for his time. Also consider sending a "thank you" note after the interview. If you are writing an article about him, you might want to send a published copy as a courtesy.
-
1
