برچسب: Editor

  • Alastair Johnstone-Hack – A Photo Editor


    A school playground in the neighbourhood of the Belchatów coal-fired power plant. Kleszczow, Poland.  November 14th 2023.

    Heidi: Archival and historical records play an important visual role in the future of accountability – who did what, when, and with what impact? What type of photography are you looking for to support these themes?
    Alastair: Absolutely, and photography can bring this kind of accountability to life in ways that words and data can’t. At Climate Visuals we are predominantly working with photojournalistic imagery, prioritising photography that tells real stories and engages, educates and informs audiences. 

    In the most obvious sense, photography can powerfully highlight what is going on, raising awareness and driving public concern. This could be in an immediate, more news focused context, or over a longer period of time. With the latter, the value really comes through in the power of images to show a change over time, to make clear what has happened, changed, been lost or damaged. Some of these changes may be visibly dramatic and obvious, but they could also be more discreet, happening at a scale or pace not immediately visible day to day. In both instances, photography can be a powerful tool in recording and archiving, and in highlighting and proving a reality. 

    To maximize this potential for engaging audiences we are often looking for images that distill wider issues into tangible, relatable human-focused stories – what was the effect on a community? How did that community adapt to the changes? We’re also looking for images that go beyond overly familiar visual stereotypes and tell stories in new, compelling ways. We are now all familiar with images of polar bears clinging to melting ice, forest fires sweeping across hillsides, and smokestacks pumping out pollution into the air – and there’s no doubt that these photographs have powerfully contributed to the public image of climate change. But it is our responsibility as photographers and picture editors to build on this and seek new ways of telling these stories and to continue to develop how we visualize these issues. Think about how complex, intersecting issues can be distilled into tangible stories, how your audience might approach an issue and what kind of imagery they are likely to respond to. 

    Photography has the potential to fulfill an evidentiary role and then go further, going beyond literal illustration to demonstrating to an audience why something matters. We are looking for photography that can do this – telling the stories of what is happening and then providing a compelling narrative for the viewer to engage with. 

    Abandoned homes along the only road traversing Isle de Jean Charles. Home to the Band of Biloxi-Chitimacha-Choctaw Indians that have inhabited this narrow island since the 1830s. Located in the Terrebonne Parish, LA, the island and its residents have been in direct threat from hurricanes and sea level rise, which has led to a controversial resettlement project for the community. The increased and consistent threat of climate related events for the island has resulted in a majority of residents moving away, with only 5 families remaining on the island. February 8, 2020. Photo credit: Juan Diego Reyes / Climate Visuals

    Proof of degradation, before and after comparisons and human rights angles come to mind, what else?
    All of those themes are very important. I’d add highlighting the impacts of climatic changes both locally and globally, the inequality of how impacts are felt, and foregrounding any systemic issues at the heart of a story.

    I’d also say that connecting all of these angles into a compelling narrative is an essential role for photography. From an editorial perspective, photography presents a powerful opportunity to knit all of these elements together, again coming back to the idea of helping audiences to engage with what is going on, why a story matters, why they should stop scrolling and engage in more detail, and why this subject deserves their concern. In distilling complex issues into tangible stories, photography can play a vital role in taking climate storytelling out of the abstract, humanising technical details and building a compelling, relatable sense of why stories matter. 

    What examples came across your desk recently that felt powerful to you?
    We recently worked on a project looking at the effects of air pollution on communities in Indonesia, Poland, South Africa and the UK. In South Africa, photographer Gulshan Khan made some great work with communities in the Highveld region, showing the serious health effects of air pollution in the area. These effects were part of the so-called Deadly Air Case, where the poor air quality over the Highveld Priority Area was deemed a breach of residents’ section 24(a) constitutional right to an environment that is not harmful to their health and well-being. These photographs, combining striking portraits of affected individuals with documentary images of daily life and compelling general views really tell the story of the effects on the local community.

    Maria Nkosi* demonstrates how she uses a few times a week for her asthma at her home which is a street away from a mine in Clever, Witbank, Emalahleni, South Africa, on November 28, 2023. In 2021 the High Court in Pretoria confirmed a judgement in what was called the Deadly Air Case, that the poor air quality over the Highveld Priority Area is a breach of residents’ section 24(a) constitutional right to an environment that is not harmful to their health and well-being.  *not her real name. Photo credit: Gulshan Khan/Climate Visuals

    Samuel Nkosi* walks through a plot of land next to a mine where he farms vegetables which he donates to the church in Witbank, Emalahleni, South Africa, on November 28, 2023. *not his real name. Photo credit: Gulshan Khan/Climate Visuals

    A map of the Vosman area drawn by founder Vusi Mabaso hangs on the wall of the offices of Vukani Evironmental Movement (VEM) discuss the issue of informal miners called Zama-Zamas at their offices in Witbank, Emalahleni on November 28, 2023. VEM is a non profit organisation that was established in 2016, focused on environmental justice issues like Air Pollution, Climate Change and Energy, Water and Sanitation. Photo credit: Gulshan Khan / Climate Visuals

    Similarly, in Indonesia, photographer Aji Styawan photographed taxi driver Istu Prayogi in Jakarta who was part of a group of residents of the city who filed a lawsuit relating to air pollution problems. In portraits and reportage of daily life, these images help to ground an expansive problem in real world, relatable stories.

    Istu Prayogi (58) working as an online taxi driver, looking for passengers amid the traffic in Jakarta, Indonesia, on November 16, 2023. Every morning he coughs and spits out ripples of thick blood, affected by the air pollution. In 2016, Istu was diagnosed with respiratory problems, referred to as Acute Respiratory Infections (ARI). In August 2019, Prayogi as part of a group of 31 residents who are members of IBUKOTA (Capital) Coalition filed a citizen lawsuit to the Central Jakarta district court related to air pollution problems. They sued the President of Indonesia, the Minister of Health, the Minister of Transportation, Minister of Environment and Forestry, Governor of Jakarta Capital Special Region, West Java and Banten Province. One of their demands is regarding improving regulations for handling air pollution in Jakarta and its surroundings. Photo credit: Aji Styawan/Climate Visuals

    Away from our work, I thought that Chris Donovan’s photography of St. John, New Brunswick, recently featured in the New York Times, was a standout example of the power of deeply reported visual storytelling to communicate complex, intersecting stories to an audience and I was really pleased to see the work given the space to tell the story in this way. 

    Ewa Pisarzowska worked for over 25 years in the coal mines and salt extraction industry in Rybnik. She lost work during the pandemic and so did her partner, they soon could no longer afford to rent an apartment and for a few months lived at their friend’s place. Recently they rented a studio apartment with central heating, but without furniture. They struggle to pay for food or electricity. Ewa sometimes helps at the “Wspolny Stol” center, she looks for food, still edible but not for sale, in dustbins near big grocery stores. To save money on electricity and still know what is happening in the world she often uses TV as the only source of light in the house.  Rybnik, Silesia, Poland. December 14 2024. Photo credit: Kasia Strek / Climate Visuals

    While photography could be a game-changer for climate litigation, there are real, structural, and even ethical barriers that prevent the kind of visual storytelling and documentation that would truly support justice-centered climate work. What do you see as the biggest barriers?
    Firstly, time and money. Much of what Climate Visuals advocates for has detailed, in-depth, photographic storytelling at its heart, which as we all know is often expensive and time consuming to produce and all too often out of reach for many. Relatedly – display space. This kind of photojournalism needs to be afforded the space on publication to get into the detail and hold a narrative structure. Whilst there are outlets publishing fantastic, long-form and in-depth, visual reporting, the opportunities for this are only ever decreasing, whilst all the while the dominance of single-image distribution via social media grows. This is a challenging environment for the kind of imagery our evidence tells us audiences want to see. 

    Interlinked with these three challenges is the appetite for a less literal, limited and illustrative role for photography in the coverage of climate change. As above, much of what our evidence base encourages becomes more possible when photography’s role in storytelling is not restricted to place-holder, generic images at the top of web articles and in social media thumbnails. Whilst digital platforms provide near limitless opportunities for complex and in depth visual storytelling formats, all too often comprehensive reporting is accompanied by generic, familiar imagery and the potential for compelling and engaging photography is missed. 

    As a photography industry we need to continue to push for the expanded role that I’m sure we all believe images should fulfill. We need to seek evidence and rationale for this expanded role to build that justification – be it research evidence like at Climate Visuals, or case studies of high performing exemplary content through audience metrics. It is with these kinds of insights that you can build a case and achieve the necessary buy-in. 

    Beyond those structural barriers, I would highlight a couple of other key issues, firstly the safety of participants. This must be at the heart of any considerations about visual coverage of climate litigation and include the full spectrum of potential image uses into the future. Appearing in imagery and being linked to litigation could bring with it significant personal and community risks for participants. Truly informed consent and frank, detailed and empathetic conversations including all available information with any potential participants is essential. Added to this is the ethics of using individual stories to represent wider, more systemic issues. This needs to be carefully considered on a case by case basis, and individuals and their stories need to be appropriately protected, for example with clear limitations on how, where and when imagery can be used. Ensuring that a diverse range of perspectives contributes to the visual coverage is also key. As commissioners and photographers we must collaborate with communities in telling their stories, seek to work with photographers connected to the stories, locations and contexts they are photographing and prioritise expanding the diversity of perspectives seen by audiences. Only by doing this can the full potential for engaging, empathetic and ethical, justice-centered climate visual storytelling be realised. 

    Visual evidence-based imagery can serve as critical documentation in legal cases – how are you verifying these images are not manipulated?
    Climate Visuals works to, and promotes, photojournalism industry best practice with regards to image manipulation. With commissioned work we are collaborating with trusted photographers who know, understand and actively represent the values and ethics that underpin our work. With submitted images we work with a set of submission guidelines that include standards for manipulation as well as ethical best practice. In addition to these safeguards we carry out verification checks on imagery through a mix of processes including OSINT analysis of content, scenes and locations, fact checking of details and caption information, and working with trusted local partners to confirm image and story details. 

    We also prioritise accompanying images with detailed caption information and encourage its inclusion when images are used to ensure that further detail, context and nuance accompany the images.

    The solar park located outside the village of Feldheim, Germany on February 21, 2023. The park produces  enough energy to meet the yearly electricity demands of approximately 600 households consisting of four individuals each. Feldheim is the first village in Germany to be completely self-sufficient in energy. With the help of wind energy, photovoltaics, biogas, biomass, a regulating power plant and a local heating network, the village covers its own needs. The large amounts of surplus energy generated in the process are fed into the public grid. Photo credit: Ingmar Björn Nolting / Climate Visuals

    What role do you see photography playing within political activism to support the themes of climate change and justice?
    Photography can play an important role in helping audiences understand and relate to complex issues. From performing an evidentiary role, recording and highlighting what is happening around our planet, to driving public concern and opinion, there’s a long history of photography playing a powerful role in the issues of climate change and justice. In our ever increasingly image-saturated world I still believe that photography has an essential role to play here, but I do think that the way in which it can play this has changed. I believe that the potential for single photojournalistic images to take on ‘iconic’ status and go on to represent whole issues is now greatly reduced, the volume of new imagery being produced and consumed, and the speed of its consumption, is just too great. Instead, photography’s power as a tool for in-depth, empathetic storytelling, across different platforms and use contexts, should be prioritised. In a highly competitive visual environment, compelling visual reporting presents an opportunity to capture audiences’ attention, inform and build understanding, concern and empathy. To do this however, photography’s role in telling stories of climate change and justice needs not to be restricted to pure illustration, but instead to have the scope and freedom to tell these stories in depth, from a diverse range of perspectives, and with adequate space on publication. Only then can photography fulfil its full potential to humanise complex issues and build empathy, ground stories in a reality that audiences can relate to, and build a weight of evidence behind concerns. 

    I also think photography can play an important role in helping audiences to visualise a future. It can show how a situation could be improved, how a community elsewhere came together and solved a similar problem, and what opportunities could come were a cause to be fought. Photojournalism’s role in telling constructive stories shouldn’t be overlooked – we know from our research that images of climate change impacts are very emotionally powerful, but they can also overwhelm audiences. One way to combat this is to pair them with images highlighting tangible, relatable actions that audiences can take, or visual reporting that shines the light on ‘what happened next’ – it’s vitally important to record and show the devastating impacts of climate change, but don’t stop there, seek ways to demonstrate future potential through imagery too.

    Firefighters are surrounded by a scorched landscape as they continue to work to tackle a large moorland wildfire in the Goyt Valley, near Buxton in the Peak District. Derbyshire, England. 3rd May 2025. The blaze caused extensive damage to vegetation in the area. Credit: Alastair Johnstone-Hack / Climate Visuals 

    Rachel cycles her children to school on a cargo bike, through busy traffic, in Didsbury, Manchester, UK. 2nd February 2024. Photo credit: Mary Turner / Climate Visuals

    How did you get involved in Climate Visuals and what are your core themes?
    I came to Climate Visuals from my previous role as Deputy News Picture Editor of The Times and The Sunday Times newspapers in London. Before that I was an agency news photographer in south west England. I have long been a keen follower of the work Climate Visuals was doing to combine research insight with practical, usable guidance and resources, and jumped at the chance to get involved. 

    At the heart of what we do is our evidence base – this underpins our guidance and the resources that we provide users. It is founded in an original piece of research looking at audience responses to different climate images and led to our 7 Climate Visuals Principles. Since then, we have continued to expand our understanding through further projects, including ones focussed on photographing the ocean and climate link, diversity in images of England’s green and natural spaces, best visual practice for working with those with, or who are from, Indigenous and forest communities of Central and South America, and guidance for photographing extreme heat.
    Alongside our guidance resources we run an image library which contains thousands of images that exemplify our findings. Many of these are available through licences that allow for free non-profit, editorial and educational use – making compelling and engaging images of climate change available for those who often find them out of reach. You can browse the library here.

    If a photographer wanted to submit images, are you centered around specific themes?
    I’m always interested to hear from photographers and see any work people think we might be interested in. Our thematic focus depends on the specific projects that we are working on, but broadly I’m always excited to see images and stories that fulfil our guiding principles/evidence and tell new, compelling environment and climate stories. Whilst we aren’t always able to accept submissions, I am always seeking to expand our network and awareness of photographers working on climate and environment stories in case the opportunity arises for collaboration.  

    How does the funding work and is there any assignments, or is this all submission based?
    It depends on the project we’re working on – we work with a mix of commissioned assignments, such as with this project on air pollution, and submissions such as with our Ocean Visuals and Visualising Climate Change initiatives. For updates on what we are currently working on you can follow us on social media @climatevisuals.





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  • Food Images For A High-Profile Cross-Promotion – A Photo Editor


    By Bryan Sheffield, Wonderful Machine

    Each month, we explain a recent cost estimate, contract, or purchase order in the form of a Pricing & Negotiating article. By redacting the names of the photographer and the client, we can share useful information that would otherwise be confidential. You can read more about our Pricing & Negotiating services on the Consulting Services page of our website.

    Concept: 1 day of Food/Drink, Still Life/Product Photography
    Licensing: Perpetual Exclusive use of 10 images for two parties and Web Collateral use of 10 images for five years for a third party
    Photographer: Food/Drink and Still Life specialist
    Clients: Global Financial Services Brand and Restaurant Group

    Summary

    I recently helped an East Coast photographer create an estimate and negotiate a project for a prominent financial services company. The client was partnering with a well-known restaurant group on a cross-promotion. The client’s creative brief called for “carefully curated overhead and detail shots of plated food and drink, paired with the financial company’s branded items.”

    The shoot was scheduled to take place on a single shoot day at the restaurant group’s test kitchen, conveniently located in the same city as the photographer. The original shot list included multiple food and drink setups, and the photographer planned to create two sets with different lighting styles, moving between them throughout the day. The client would provide the food, food styling, props, hair stylist, makeup, wardrobe, and wardrobe stylist.

    The deliverables specified 10 final images. The client requested exclusive, perpetual, unlimited use of the images to promote their services across various platforms. The intended use included web ads, OOH placement in three East Coast cities, and large-scale wall ads in several airports. Additionally, the client wanted the company supplying the plates and glasses to be able to use the images on their social media for 5 years.

    Fees

    We allocated $23,500 for combined Creative/Licensing Fees. Based on the scope of work and the client’s intended use, we felt that a $2,500 Creative Fee and $21,000 for licensing the 10 images was appropriate, though likely at the higher end of the client’s expectations. We also offered the option to license additional images for $2,500 each, including up to two hours of retouching.

    For the five-year web collateral license for the plate and glassware company, we budgeted $1,750 for the 10 images. We knew that charging $175 per image was pretty low, but the photographer wanted to extend this courtesy to the client. It was important for the photographer to impress the tableware company and work to build a good relationship for the future. Additionally, the photographer did not charge separately for their tech scout day and simply bundled it into their Creative Fee.

    Crew

    We included a first assistant at $650/day and a Digitech at $900/day. These rates were consistent with rates in this city and aligned with what the photographer had previously paid their crew.

    Equipment

    We allocated $2,200 for camera, lenses, lighting, and grip rentals. The photographer planned to use their own cameras, lenses, and lights while renting additional specialty modifiers, grip equipment, and a few surfaces they had in mind for the project. We also included $700 for the Digitech workstation and $320 for a couple of hard drives.

    Misc

    Although there are times when we bill separately for liability and worker’s comp insurance, in this instance, we chose to bundle that cost into the Creative/Licensing fees (though we kept the line item to show the client that coverage was being provided).

    Post-Production

    We budgeted $500 for the photographer to perform a first-round edit with basic color & contrast curves and $3,000 for retouching the 10 images, including up to 2 hours per image. The photographer would handle the retouching themselves.

    Results

    We heard back from the client the same day, saying that the estimate was accepted and they wanted to move forward. We scheduled a creative call for the following day. During the call, the client requested an updated estimate for 16 final images. While the shot list remained the same, they wanted a few additional images from some of the scenes. We knew the “hero” images hadn’t changed — they simply wanted more variations and angles from each scene to use as support imagery. We took this into account and submitted a revised estimate. The only adjustments we made were to the Fees and Post-Production sections, outlined below.

    Fees

    We allocated $32,000 for combined Creative/Licensing Fees, considering that these were not new scenes but additional support images around the hero shots. The increase of $8,500 for the six additional images felt fair to both me and the photographer. We also updated the five-year web collateral license for the plate and glassware company to include the six extra images at the previously established per-image rate.

    Post-Production

    We updated the retouching fees to $4,800 to cover the six additional images.

    Update

    The client reached out to let us know they still wanted to move forward, but the new total exceeded their project budget. They requested that we bring it closer to $35,000. They also wanted us to reduce the third-party plates and glassware company’s use to two years and limit it to five images. Since the adjustments would only involve the fees, I suggested to the client that we could reduce the costs if we could lower the use duration to three years and remove the exclusivity. The client didn’t confirm whether this was possible but asked to see an updated estimate. This third estimate included adjustments to the licensing description, Licensing Options, and Fees sections, while all other line items remained unchanged.

    Fees

    We allocated $23,500 for combined Creative/Licensing Fees, which would cover unlimited use of up to 16 images for three years, and removed the previous exclusivity provision. We updated the web collateral license for the plate and glassware company to $625 to cover two years and up to five images.

    Results

    The client accepted the estimate, and the project took place a few days later. The photographer called me that night, saying, “It was awesome, man. Everyone was great and appreciative.” After the shoot, the client expressed their gratitude, saying, “Thank you for an incredibly fun partnership on the shoot earlier this week. It was a pleasure to collaborate with you and the team as we begin to bring this experience to life!”

    Shortly after, the client submitted an image order nearly three times larger than what was included in the original estimate. We reminded them that the additional fees would be $1,600 per image, as outlined in the estimate. In response, the client reduced their order to 16 images. Although this was a bit disappointing for the photographer, they were still very pleased with the outcome. The final retouched images turned out beautifully and the client launched their campaign in December 2024 ahead of holiday season travel.

    Follow our Consultants @wonderful_at_work.





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  • Beth Galton – A Photo Editor


    The Art of the Personal Project is a crucial element to let potential buyers see how you think creatively on your own.  I am drawn to personal projects that have an interesting vision or that show something I have never seen before.  In this thread, I’ll include a link to each personal project with the artist statement so you can see more of the project. Please note: This thread is not affiliated with any company; I’m just featuring projects that I find.  Please DO NOT send me your work.  I do not take submissions.

    Today’s featured artist:  Beth Galton

    Covid Diary

    Like everyone, I struggled with the magnitude of the pandemic; how it insidiously spread and wreaked havoc everywhere it went. In March of 2020, as the virus swept around the globe, my world in NYC became my apartment. I knew that in order to keep safe I wouldn’t be able to access my studio, so I brought my camera home and constructed a small set next to a window.

    My days began with looking at the NY Times and Washington Post online, hoping to find a glimmer of positivity. What I found were the maps, charts, and headlines, tracking Covid-19’s spread. Obsessed, I screen grabbed and printed them out to see how the disease had multiplied and moved, soon realizing that each of these little visual changes affected millions of people. The graphics were highly analytical, devoid of the emotional toll of those affected. It felt necessary to use them in my photographs, to help me process this devastating experience. ⁠

    Eventually, images of the vast number of people who had died began to appear in the news. Grids of people’s faces filled the screen; most having passed alone without family or friends beside them. As the virus moved through the US, many of our political leaders refused to acknowledge the dangers that it posed creating devastation and death. The incredible loss and the politics of this period were incorporated into these photographs.

    ⁠This series began in March 2020 when NYC was the epicenter of the pandemic. It is a reflection of my emotions and thoughts through those dizzying 18 months. By photographing the recorded data,combined with botanicals, my intent is to speak to the humanity of those affected by this epidemic.Motion in the images was utilized to help convey the chaos and apprehensions we were all experiencing. Once assembled, I now see that these images have created a visual diary of this period, the politics of the time, and the way it has affected our everyday lives.

    To see more of this project, click here

    To purchase the book, click here

    Instagram

    APE contributor Suzanne Sease currently works as a consultant for photographers and illustrators around the world.  She has been involved in the photography and illustration advertising and in-house corporate industry for decades.  After establishing the art-buying department at The Martin Agency, then working for Kaplan-Thaler, Capital One, Best Buy and numerous smaller agencies and companies, she decided to be a consultant in 1999.  Follow her on Instagram





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  • The Daily Edit – Florian Schulz and the vital role photography has in shaping public awareness and influencing policy – A Photo Editor


    Photographer, Filmmaker, and Conservationist: Florian Schulz

    Heidi: We are a culture distracted by screen and cell service – is your photography and film work partially an act of resistance?
    Floiran: As a photographer and filmmaker, I often find myself at the intersection of creativity and technology. While social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram are undeniably powerful tools for sharing work and connecting with others, I have a complex relationship with them. On one hand, they provide valuable insights into the work of colleagues and friends, as well as access to news and thought-provoking statements. However, I also see them as significant sources of misinformation, where quantity often trumps quality, and the loudest voices can overshadow meaningful content.

    In my personal life, my wife and I have made a conscious decision to limit screen time for our children. Our 9- and 13-year-olds do not have cell phones, and screens are not used for entertainment. (We do watch nature documentaries on the TV) This choice has allowed them to develop remarkable creativity and a keen awareness of the world around them. They observe how excessive screen time affects their peers, and it’s heartening to see them thrive without the constant distraction of digital media.

    In this sense, my photography and filmmaking can be seen as acts of resistance against the prevailing culture of distraction. By focusing on creating meaningful, high-quality content that encourages reflection and engagement, I aim to counterbalance the fast-paced, often superficial nature of social media. My work is about capturing moments that inspire, provoke thought, and foster connection on a deeper level.

    Moreover, the process of creating art without the constant influence of social media allows me to tap into my own creative potential more authentically. It enables me to explore themes and ideas that might not fit into the algorithm-driven narratives that dominate online platforms. This approach not only enriches my work but also contributes to a broader cultural dialogue that values substance over spectacle.

    Ultimately, my goal is to inspire others to step back from the screens and engage with the world around them. By doing so, I hope to contribute to a shift in how we consume and interact with media, one that prioritizes depth, creativity, and genuine connection.

    Nature is wild and she works on her terms – how has this lack of control informed your creative work and life?

    Yes, nature is wild and unpredictable. That is exactly what I love about my work! This career that I have chosen is not such much of a simple job, work, a career, – it is rather the inevitable path I had to walk because of my passion for wild places, the adventure that comes with it and the desire to be in the presence of wild creatures. To do my work well, I need to be out in the wild for extended periods of times. This has always been my goal and accordingly I have chosen projects that allowed me to do this. What is beautiful about it is that one has to let go of control and especially when documenting wildlife I have to give in to a more organic approach. Sometimes when I am waiting for hours for an animal to appear or a certain behavior to show this work has a meditative element. I have to be here and now in the present. The sounds, sights, smells – the wind and weather conditions. All of it is important to take in or to capture in a series of photographs to document an ecosystem with its wildlife. I love the idea that moments and images have to “come to you”. The animals have to present themselves, that is when the good images get taken. After doing this for so many decades I also realize that it is not just the final image that counts for me – but the entire experience.
    As all of this takes a lot of time, we are just now at a particular crossroads. Even though I have always tried to have my family be a part of the adventure it was only possible at certain times. We are now embarking onto a new path where we are going to be exploring the wild as an entire family. We will start with some of the most exciting wild places across Alaska. From the fjords and forests of South East Alaska to the Arctic Tundra of the North or the bears coast along the Alaska peninsula.

    Does all your work come with a call to action? If a photographer wanted to get started supporting a cause, what’s the best way to start?
    You are right that a lot of my work over the past decades has been mission driven and often included a call to action. The hope to help with the conservation of ecosystems comes across in the stories I tell through my images. As a conservation photographer, my goal is to inspire viewers to care about the natural world and its wildlife. Whether it’s documenting the majesty of wild places or highlighting the challenges faced by endangered species, my work aims to raise awareness and encourage action.

    For photographers looking to support a cause, I would recommend starting by identifying what truly resonates with them. It might be a specific species, ecosystem, or environmental issue. Once you’ve found your passion, immerse yourself in learning about the topic. Collaborate with experts, such as scientists or conservationists, to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and potential solutions.

    Networking is also crucial. Join organizations like the International League of Conservation Photographers (ILCP), which I co-founded, to connect with like-minded photographers and learn from their experiences. Engage with conservation groups and consider partnering with them to amplify your message.

    Lastly, use your platform to share your story. Whether through social media, exhibitions, or publications, make sure your work reaches the right audience. Remember, the power of photography lies not just in capturing stunning images but in inspiring change and motivating others to take action.

    In my own journey, projects like “Freedom to Roam” or the effort to help with the permanent protection of the Arctic Refuge have shown me the impact that visual storytelling can have on conservation efforts. By sharing compelling narratives and images, photographers can play a vital role in shaping public awareness and influencing policy decisions.

    What cues do you recall when your first realized your photography/filmmaking gave agency to the biodiversity and landscape, presenting the Arctic as worth protecting rather than just a barren energy resource? 
    I believe a big reason why conservation was such a big topic for myself from early on was me growing up in Germany. In Germany and across most European countries we had lost large interconnected wild ecosystems. While we have a 1000 year old castle around the corner from where I grow up, we had lost wild places. This feeling of loss, made me cherish the big wild places across North America. Whether it was the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem where we would still find bears, bison, elk and wolves, or the wild coastlines or the Arctic where the ancient caribou herds would still roam. There was never a time where I could look at these great arctic landscapes as “barren wastelands”.
    The fight for the Arctic Refuge has been going on for many decades and I have been involved with the Refuge for the last 25 years. It has always been a collaborative effort to fight for the Arctic Refuge alongside the Gwich’in People and many conservation organizations. My images and film work have been a central part in a lot of these efforts and campaigns. From big live speaking tours, many magazine articles to massive signature campaigns, like during the #ProtectTheArctic campaign that inspire millions to take action. This campaign resulted in an unprecedented 6 million comments submitted to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, effectively stopping seismic testing in the Arctic Refuge. Unfortunately, the battle the Arctic Refuge and other wild places is long lasting tug of war.

    What can you share about this image from your coffee table book, To The Arctic?
    I near a group of muskox bulls and find myself wishing for a musk ox’s coat to protect me from the weather. Their long guard hair hangs from their bodies like beautiful overcoats. Underneath, their wool is eight times warmer than the highest-quality sheep wool.
    I feel the gripping cold, especially on my face, where the snow crystals lash my skin like grains of sand. But I am excited about this turn in the weather. It allows me to create photographs that show a true Arctic scene, with conditions these musk oxen have to withstand many times in the course of the year.
    The wind becomes so intense that the animals almost disappear behind a curtain of blowing snow, their long hair rippling around them like soft cloth. I try to get close enough to capture their image before the sun dips behind the ridgeline. Dropping to my knees, I frame the scene as the last rays cast pink light on the musk oxen’s fur.
    Then something magical happens. Three bulls take off from the group, heading directly toward the setting sun. For an instant they are in perfect formation. The blowing snow is so thick that it makes the three bulls seem to float magically above the ground. A photograph of a lifetime-and worth everything I had to endure to get it.

    Patagonia celebrated your conservation work for ANWR in their Fall catalogs (2016 and 2024) both being election years, what feels different this second time around about impacts we can make as individuals and collectives?
    I’m honored to have been a part of Patagonia’s conservation efforts, including their campaigns highlighting the importance of protecting the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). The recent “Alaska Needs You” campaign underscores the urgency of our collective action. What is different today after the recent election: “ Alaska Needs You More Than Ever! “ However, it is not just about Alaska; many wild places are under threat due to a wholesale mentality of exploiting public lands and resources, which will ultimately rob future generations of their natural heritage.

    The current landscape is complicated by attacks on democratic values, the environment, public lands, and marginalized communities. Misinformation is a significant obstacle, as it often misleads people into believing that exploiting public lands will benefit underprivileged Americans, when in reality, it primarily enriches corporations and billionaires.

    However, I remain hopeful. There is a growing recognition of the need for collective action. By coming together as a community, we can fight against these challenges and protect our planet’s biodiversity. The power of collaboration, as seen in campaigns like “Alaska Needs You,” demonstrates that when individuals and organizations unite, we can inspire meaningful change and safeguard the future of our wild places.

    One of the oil drill pads at the edge of the Arctic Refuge just west of the Canning River delta. Oil companies have pushed for opening the Arctic Refuge to the east of the Canning River for oil development. Canning River Delta, Alaskan Arctic

    You’ve called Alaska home for the past 15 years, a place where mining, drilling, and extraction remain real threats to land, biodiversity, how are you thinking about your work these days?
    Every day we are chipping away at the last open spaces and wild lands. The current administration is doing this at a massively accelerated pace. Unfortunately, it is the same old story that is repeating itself. The main difference is, that we have less and less wilderness around us and the speed of exploitation is ever faster. What I am planning to continue to do is fight the same old fight but with different stories and from different perspectives. I personally have to pace myself and also consider my children. If I will always bring up all the critical things I see it is hard for them to be joyful. All this consciousness weighs hard on myself and that gets passed on to them. I want to let my children go and see the beauty of this planet with their curious joyful eyes. So in the coming years, that might be part of the way I will tell stories for us to protect earth for future generations.

    What are you working on now?
    I am currently putting on the finishing touches on a presentation I will give at the Patagonia Soho Store in New York City on March 19th.
    At the same time we are in the middle of planning multiple expeditions across Alaska. This spring we are hoping to document bears coming out of their winter dens. We will also be working in areas across the vast coastal areas of Southeast Alaska and later in the summer across Arctic Alaska. My family will be part of many of the expeditions.





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  • The state of the photo industry survey – A Photo Editor


    Photographers! It’s here! Click the link below to learn more about completing the @aphotoeditor and @hmphotoprof 2025 State of the Industry Survey!

    We’re recruiting photographers to participate in a massive, state of the industry survey. Open to all professional photographers from all genres and markets. Please share with your colleagues and within your photo network. The more folks that participate, the more accurate the information.

    Results to come in summer 2025.

    Link to fill out the survey:

    Click Here to take the survey

    Research conducted by: Heather Morton, professor at Sheridan College heather.morton@sheridancollege.ca and Rob Haggart, PhotoFolio

    This research has been reviewed and received ethics clearance by the Sheridan Research Ethics Board. SREB number: 2025-03-001-005

    Approximate time to complete the survey: 12 minutes.





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  • The Photo Hustle – There Is No Magic Formula – A Photo Editor


    This is an excerpt from The Photo Hustle by Karen Williams Buy your copy here: https://store.mangopublishinggroup.com/products/the-photo-hustle-1

    Screenshot

    If you picked up this book, I’m betting you love photography enough to pursue a career in it, but you have no idea where to start. That’s where I come in. I want to be the resource and mentor I never had, so you don’t have to learn the hard way. I’ll be sharing the insider secrets of the photography industry that they don’t teach you in school. Because combining your passion for photography with a career can get a little messy. Being a great photographer is only half the battle. To thrive in this industry, you need to be a savvy entrepreneur, too. And that’s why I took it upon myself to fill in this much-needed gap. Instead of hoping things will change, it’s time we take control of our careers—and I’m here to help you do just that. This book will equip you with everything you need to know for a successful photography career. But you have to show up and put in the work.

    The photo hustle is real. These days, it’s not enough to have talent. You have to know the industry—and it’s a tough one to break into. Most photography schools and workshops don’t teach you how to run a successful business. Rather, they focus on the latest gear and techniques. They’ll teach you about posing, directing clients, composition, and lighting. They’ll show you all the pretty editing tricks and how to set up a shot.

    But actual business skills? That stuff rarely gets taught in the photography world. Marketing and branding? Not in most curricula. Sales and pricing strategies? I don’t think so. Client experience and retention? Doubtful. Financial planning and management? I’m not seeing it. Most photographers are expected to figure it out on their own, often through trial and error. But in reality, most photographers were never prepared for the “photo hustle” that exists on the flip side of their passion… I know I wasn’t.

    Listen, I know you have the passion. I know you’ve dedicated your time to your craft. And I know you’re ready to get out there and share it with the world. Yes, photography is a tough road. But if you stick it out, get up when you get knocked down, and keep going, you can succeed. Keep pushing, keep creating, and keep capturing life through your lens. The world is waiting to see your visual eye.

    There is no magic formula for making it in photography. If you’re hoping for a perfect path to success from Point A to Point B, I’m sorry to be the one to break it to you—it just doesn’t exist. No two photographers fall into success in the same way.

    “I’ve done everything right, but nothing is working. How do I get in?”

    It’s a question I get almost daily, but this time it came from a friend—let’s call her Michelle—over coffee. Michelle, an incredibly gifted photographer, had been struggling. Two years out of photography school, and she hadn’t landed her dream gigs…or anything close to them. Instead, she was building a business photographing families and pets. She was good—damn good—but it wasn’t her dream. Like so many photographers I talk to every day, Michelle had talent and drive, but couldn’t break into the industry. So, what gives?

    I told Michelle what I tell all photographers: the industry has secrets they don’t want you to know. No matter how good you are or how many boxes you check, breaking in is tough. And if you don’t know what I’m going to share with you on these pages, then your chances of getting in are just as slim. Some photographers make it by luck, some hustle, and some are “discovered.” But believe me, there’s no perfect path, no magic formula—just straight talent and lots (and lots) of hustle.

    When I was studying for my BFA, my dream was to shoot the cover of Rolling Stone magazine. That dream was shaken when, in September 2023, the president and founder Jan Wenner dismissed Black and female artists as not “articulate enough” for his book The Masters, a collection of interviews with rock’s greatest.2 His words hit hard, sparking the same frustration I felt following the George Floyd tragedy and the hollow promises made in light of his death. After fifteen years in the industry, I had become accustomed to being one of the few Black people on set, and I began to question why so many talented, hard-working photographers of all kinds were being sidelined. The answer is simple: the industry keeps a lot of information locked away. And I had become a part of the industry-wide gatekeeping that I hated so much. This book is the product of my determination to change that.

    Spoiler alert: I’m not a professional photographer—I’m the person behind the scenes, hiring photographers, shaping art direction, and building brand stories big and small. I’m living my dream as a photo editor. Over the last fifteen years, I’ve had the opportunity to work for WIRED, Southern Living, Netflix, AARP, MasterClass, Square, and San Francisco Magazine. But the journey wasn’t easy—I faced a ton of job rejections that nearly shattered my confidence. But I refused to let them break me down—I chose not to let others dictate my worth or my future in the field. So, I took matters into my own hands and hustled hard for years. I even changed jobs fourteen times in sixteen years, transforming each of my setbacks into an opportunity to learn, grow, and improve my craft. My journey of hustle and hard work led me to where I am today. I even founded my company, Black Visual Queen, to change the industry and help photographers like you find their path to success in this highly gate-kept arena, where opportunities are often so elusive.

    First, a word of warning: this is a tough industry, and brand photography isn’t for everyone. The road to that dream is a long one, paved with hustle, hard work, and lots (and lots) of rejection. But since you’re reading this book, I’m willing to bet that knowing this doesn’t deter you. You’re one of the photographers who have the determination to work with prestigious, big-name clients, and you’re not ready to throw in the towel on your dream just yet. If this is you, then listen up, because I’m going to teach you everything you need to know about the photo hustle—and how to get in. The photo industry is not just reserved for the elite; it’s for anyone willing to do the work. All you need is a little tenacity, talent (which you have), and the tips and tricks I’m going to spill in this book.

    Through the years, I’ve seen top photographers ready to quit, exhausted by fierce competition and overwhelmed by technology. Many don’t know how to market themselves. So, if you’re frustrated by rejections, ghosting, or “we’ll keep your name on file” responses, just keep going. Keep hustling, keep honing your craft. The challenges are real, but don’t let them extinguish your passion. Embrace your uniqueness, stay motivated, and don’t fall into the comparison trap. Photography is rewarding, and the world is waiting to see your unique perspective.

    In the following pages, you’ll learn everything photography school didn’t teach you and all the industry secrets the insiders don’t share. This is the book I wish I’d had back when I was starting out in photography: the tell-all (well, maybe not all—I’ve signed a lot of non-disclosure agreements!) about the photography biz, especially for editorial and brand work.

    The book is split into two parts. Part 1 covers how to get in the room—in other words, how to break into the industry, how to pitch, how to market yourself, handle finances, and land the gig. We’ll be diving into your “why” as a photographer because knowing that helps you make the next right decision.

    Part 2 explains what to do once you’re hired—how to navigate estimates, contracts, agents, photoshoot etiquette, avoid the dreaded blacklist (yes, it’s real), and how to redeem yourself if you find yourself on it.

    Consider this book your trusted mentor. I want this to be the book you reach for when you land the gig and have no idea what an estimate looks like or what to watch out for in a contract. I want you to take this everywhere with you. Carry it in your purse. Stow it in your camera bag. Use it as a resource to help you navigate the tough business side of photography. By the end, I want you to feel encouraged, equipped, and confident to build the successful photography career you’ve always dreamed of.

    Ready to find your “magic formula?” Let’s dive in.





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  • Stanley Greenberg – A Photo Editor


    The Art of the Personal Project is a crucial element to let potential buyers see how you think creatively on your own.  I am drawn to personal projects that have an interesting vision or that show something I have never seen before.  In this thread, I’ll include a link to each personal project with the artist statement so you can see more of the project. Please note: This thread is not affiliated with any company; I’m just featuring projects that I find.  Please DO NOT send me your work.  I do not take submissions.

    Today’s featured artist: Stanley Greenberg

    Waterworks, an exploration of New York City’s water supply and wastewater treatment systems, was originally published in 2003. This new and expanded edition is a complete reworking of the book, featuring 362 photographs, made between 1992 and 2024, and two new large, folded insert maps. Greenberg visited reservoirs, aqueducts, tunnels, gatehouses, water supply and sewer pumping stations, water tanks, wastewater treatment plants, stormwater retention facilities and maintenance covers throughout the watershed and around the city. The maps identify over 400 sites in the system, from upstate reservoirs to abandoned systems and tunnel shaft sites. In the late 1990s, Greenberg received unprecedented access to photograph the system, which made much of this work possible. After 9/11, all facilities were closed to the public. Since then, Greenberg has located hundreds of sites in plain view but largely unknown and unidentified; anonymous street furniture invisible to most people. The book and map — a field guide for anyone called to their own exploration — show a mostly underground and hidden system. The map is based on field investigations and historical documents and is designed by Greenberg and Larry Buchanan.

     

    To see more of this project, click here

    Instagram

    To purchase Waterworks, click here

    Suzanne Sease is a creative consultant and former ad-agency senior art buyer. She works with both emerging and established photographers and illustrators to create cohesive, persuasive presentations that clients can’t resist.

    Suzanne offers something rare: an insider’s perspective on how client’s source creative talent. Her deep understanding of the industry is underscored by her impressive resume: 11 years as senior art buyer at The Martin Agency, seven years as an art producer for Capital One, and stints with the art-buying department at Kaplan-Thaler and the creative department at Best Buy, where she applied her expertise to reviewing bids to see which were most likely to come in on budget. Over the years, Suzanne has worked with a wildly diverse range of clients, including Seiko, Wrangler, Bank One, AFLAC, and Clairol Herbal Essence. Now, as a consultant, she is equipped to problem-solve for her clients from an unusually dynamic point of view.

    As a longtime member of the photo community, Suzanne is also dedicated to giving back. Through her Art of the Personal Project column on the popular website aphotoeditor.com, she highlights notable personal projects by well-known and up-and-coming photographers. The column offers these artists excellent exposure while reflecting Suzanne’s passion for powerful imagery.

    Instagram





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  • Glen McClure – A Photo Editor


    The Art of the Personal Project is a crucial element to let potential buyers see how you think creatively on your own.  I am drawn to personal projects that have an interesting vision or that show something I have never seen before.  In this thread, I’ll include a link to each personal project with the artist statement so you can see more of the project. Please note: This thread is not affiliated with any company; I’m just featuring projects that I find.  Please DO NOT send me your work.  I do not take submissions.

    Today’s featured artist:  Glen McClure

    Work on the waterfront has been visually recorded in this region since the earliest inhabitants were subject matter for European explorers and scientists The entire East Coast of America and its boat builders are a continuing inspiration for artists of all kinds, whose artwork is curated, cherished, and collected for its content and style. This new project is a modern-day record that continues that effort to capture the heart of our region in images. This large collection presents a photographic and written portrait of some of the many people who make their living in 2015 in the historic Hampton Roads shipbuilding and ship repair industry. In each of the large, black-and-white archival prints. I show a single subject directly, intimately, monumentally and heroically. The work environment is the setting, and portraits range from full-length figures to close-up studies of faces. The subjects include laborers, skilled craftspeople, apprentices, hourly workers, maintenance staff, subcontractors and technicians. Each image is accompanied by a short biographical piece taken from a personal interview conducted at the time of the photograph. My intention is to introduce every viewer to a regional subset of men and women of dignity, talent and commitment, and in doing so create a sort of time capsule of participants in this massive, centuries-old industry and way of life.

    Waves of Strength features 50 portraits of African American shipyard workers from the massive Hampton Roads harbor region of Virginia. These portraits were selected from the 398 images in the original collection, workers of all races and sexes, made over a three-year period, from ten regional shipbuilding or ship repair yards. The current exhibition, Waves of Strength, focus our attention on the continuing Black contribution to an industry that makes the area one of the largest ports in the world.

    Exhibition title:

    Waves of Strength: African American Shipyard Workers of Tidewater Virginia.

    Dates- Now through June 22.

    Where:

    Portsmouth Art and Cultural Center

    400 High Street

    Portsmouth, Virginia

    For more info call:

    Portsmouth Art and Cultural Center

    757-335-3572

    For more information on this work or to purchase a print, contact Glen McClure at glen@glenmcclure.com

    To see more of this project, click here

    APE contributor Suzanne Sease currently works as a consultant for photographers and illustrators around the world.  She has been involved in the photography and illustration advertising and in-house corporate industry for decades.  After establishing the art-buying department at The Martin Agency, then working for Kaplan-Thaler, Capital One, Best Buy and numerous smaller agencies and companies, she decided to be a consultant in 1999.  Follow her on Instagram





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  • Portraits And Still Life Images For Cosmetics Brand – A Photo Editor

    Portraits And Still Life Images For Cosmetics Brand – A Photo Editor


    Concept: Portraiture and Still Life Images for Cosmetics Brand
    Licensing: Unlimited use of all images captured for one year
    Photographer: Beauty and Still Life specialist
    Client: Cosmetics brand

    Summary

    I recently worked with a photographer to help them develop an estimate for a campaign promoting a cosmetic brand’s new product. The brand wanted still life images as well as images of the product in use by professional talent in a studio setting. The creative brief called for a mix of minimal setups against a white background, along with a few scenarios that involved prop styling and set design.

    Fees

    The client initially presented a shot list that included eight main shots. One of the shots was identified as a key visual while the others were considered supplemental. Although they requested unlimited use of all images, they were willing to limit the duration to one year.

    I felt the key visual was worth $5,000, images 2-3 were worth $2,500 each, and the others worth $1,000, totaling $15,000. I had wanted to include an additional few thousand dollars as a creative fee. We understood, however, that we might be pushing the limits on the fee as it was. Ultimately, my goal was to keep the bottom line in check and stay under $50k total.

    The agency, surprisingly, asked us to include a licensing option specifically for 110% of the one-year rate to include a pre-negotiated rate for a second year. In most cases, when pre-negotiating a duration extension, I’m accustomed to a request for a reduced rate compared to the original fee. I clarified this request on a call with the agency art producer. Sure enough, they explained that they’d be willing to pay 110% for an additional year, so I included that cost for the licensing and for the talent.

    In addition, the client requested we present a firm bid, rather than an estimate. I noted this at the top of the document. In this scenario, the photographer keeps any unused funds if the cost of the production is less than anticipated. This also means, however, that they would need to cover any overages if expenses were higher than anticipated. Overall, we were very confident in these fees/expenses based on the working relationships with the specific crew members, styling team, casting director, talent agents, and locations we anticipated working with.

    Crew

    Although the production was rather straightforward, we included a strong team to help quickly execute the vision. To that end, we added a producer, first assistant, second assistant, digital tech, and production assistant, all at rates appropriate for the specific market.

    Styling

    The creative brief definitively called for a prop stylist to create a few background elements and manage the products. The photographer already had a local stylist they wanted to work with. We included rates we received from them, which included their prep, shoot and wrap time. There was a need for very minor wardrobe styling, and this prop stylist was able to take on both roles. Separately, we detailed the anticipated prop and wardrobe costs, along with their kit fees and miscellaneous expenses potentially incurred in the process of acquiring all of the necessary items. We included a hair/makeup stylist and, as there were a few shots that involved close-ups of the talent’s hands holding the products, we also included a manicurist.

    Casting and Talent

    I included a rate received from a casting agent to help us find one subject based on the talent specs provided by the agency. The agency planned to pay the talent directly, but I discussed an appropriate talent fee with the agency producer. I noted this in the line item without having that line item impact our bottom line since the billings would go through the agency.

    Locations

    We included $2,500, which would allow us to afford a generously sized studio in this particular market.

    Equipment

    We included appropriate rates for the rentals the photographer would need in order to execute the creative vision. In addition, we also included fees for the digitech’s workstation as well as production supplies to make everyone comfortable on set.

    Meals

    I based this on $80 per person for 19 people, which included breakfast and lunch.

    Misc.

    I added $500 to cover any unforeseen expenses. We also noted a fee for insurance, which the agency specifically asked that we include. I often calculate insurance fees based on 1-2% of the bottom line.

    Post-production

    We just included a fee for the photographer to perform an initial edit of the photos and help make selects because the agency would handle retouching. As a separate fee, we included a line for hard drives, delivery, and archiving.

    Results

    The photographer won the project. Shortly after, however, the shoot was postponed, and then quickly brought back to life with an increased scope that included two talent. This increased the shot list in addition to production expenses. As a result, we increased the creative/licensing fees by 50%, added a producer pre-production day to handle the changes, increased wardrobe, added another manicurist, added a hair/makeup stylist assistant, and increased casting and talent. We also were asked to include some extra equipment to help facilitate remote viewing by a few clients who would be unable to attend the shoot in person. Here is the final estimate, which was approved:

    Follow our Consultants @wonderful_at_work.





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  • The Very Brief #MeToo Movement In Professional Photography – A Photo Editor


    Screenshot

    This seems like a good time to remind everyone that the photography industry had a brief “me too” moment back in 2018-2020.

    Several big photographers were named in a couple of excellent articles in the Columbia Journalism Review by Kristen Chick and Vox by A.J. Chavar.

    I’m sure there are many who never came forward because while the initial outrage caused the named to disappear and delete all their social media, they soon crawl back. Two people I’ve been following are David Alan Harvey and Patrick Witty.

    In the article by Kristen Chick, “Eleven women have described to CJR inappropriate behavior from David Alan Harvey over a span of thirteen years, ranging from suggestive comments to unwanted sexual advances to masturbating without their consent on video calls.” His agency, Magnum, was told about it and sat on the information for a decade before suspending him.

    So what is David up to now? He’s very active on Threads, where he has 57,000 followers. On Instagram, his account is private, but he has 441,000 followers. On his website, he’s selling prints, has five in-person workshops slated for 2025, and offers online mentorships.

    In the article by A.J. Chavar that talks about Patrick Witty: “I spoke to more than 20 people — some of them friends of mine in our shared industry — who said they experienced unwanted interactions with Witty, witnessed the inappropriate behavior, or were told details at the time the events occurred that corroborated the women’s stories. These stories included accounts of unwanted touching, kissing, and other advances at a variety of professional events during and prior to Witty’s employment at National Geographic.”

    So what is Patrick up to now? Semafor is reporting that he’s been hired by the White House. Prior to that he was very active on Instagram with 72,000 followers, Threads with 12,000 followers, and has a substack with 3,300 subscribers where he lists his bonafides as a photo editor at National Geographic, WIRED, TIME, and The New York Times.

    Do I think these people should be cancelled for their alleged creep-ass behavior that potentially ruined the careers of 30 women plus countless others who headed the other direction once the alarm sounded in their heads?

    YES.

    But you can do what you feel in your heart. When I brought Patrick’s behavior to the attention of “A Photographic Life” podcaster Grant Scott (former AD at Elle and Tatler) and his host Bill Shapiro (former EIC at LIFE), after they quoted him in a podcast, they refused to remove the quote or take down the podcast where they recommended people subscribe to Patrick’s Substack. Bill has subsequently become chummy with Patrick on Threads, engaging him in conversation on several occasions.

    If that weren’t enough, in a subsequent podcast, Bill Shapiro quoted Bill Frakes who has a Wikipedia entry that states “The University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) found that Frakes engaged in sexual misconduct and sexual harassment while he was a visiting professor. Frakes was found to have made unwanted comments about women students’ bodies and clothing according to a document obtained by The Omaha World-Herald.”

    I think it’s important not to memory-hole what happened. Grant Scott told me he had no idea about Patrick since he works in the UK. Bill Shapiro just told me I was being mean. If industry leaders, despite their cranky old age, refuse to acknowledge the hard work of journalists and the women who brought this information to light, there’s no reason this behavior won’t persist. Personally, I refuse to forget that our male-dominated industry creates challenges for women, and we need to continuously work to rectify that. Lets not erase the work that has already been done.





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