Law, ethics, and what not to do in photojournalism

            The First Amendment allows us, as Americans, to report and receive news without retribution from our government.  Without it we would be in the dark about life. The First Amendment was ratified by our lawmakers in 1791 to keep the public informed.

I was shocked that the freedom of press allows photographers to shoot in public places, as long as we don’t invade someone’s privacy.

Of course the paparazzi has given photojournalism a bad wrap. There is a difference. Photojournalists shoot to inform the public, and most paparazzi shoot to get paid for the shot.

Our rights of freedom of speech and to protest are what make us different from other countries. The First Amendment means I can speak as long as I do not damage one’s career with false, libelous information.

            Another interesting fact I’ve learned during the ethics and law lecture is that it’s unethical to recreate a moment or change an image in any way. Photojournalism must be accurate and truthful.