COMM 4A students hosts seminar on Photojournalism

Report by Heziel Ann Pugoy / Photo by Mandie Asejo

Senior students COMM 4A successfully organized a seminar, "Beyond the lens: Exploring the Art an Impact of Photojournalism," last April 22, at Theater Room Smith Hall - Tarlac State University Main Campus.

The seminar focused on the fundamentals and ethics of photojournalism. Group 7, composed of Jael Tabanao, Irish Mae Balasa, Nicole Tique, Kristel Bautista, Ellen Joy Castro, and Lorraine Anqui, led the event.

In an interview, guest speaker Mr. Mykie Ibarra, a member of the Photojournalists' Center of the Philippines and a freelance photojournalist with nearly 20 years of experience—shared how he began his journey in the field.

"So nagstart ako sa photo journalism, back in 2012 and I joined the photojournalists' center of the Philippines workshop, 7th edition of the workshop in nasugbu batangas, professional photojournalism and documentary photography workshop that's when i started," he said.

Furthermore, he also emphasized the challenges faced by province-based photojournalists.

"It's a challenge specially you're based in the province as compared to those based sa mga develop areas so mostly assignments lang yung nakukuha not necessarily spot news or burned neesws. Challenges talaga, ang hirap magpalabas sa national if you're from the province," Mr. Ibarra added.

Despite experiencing technical difficulties that caused a delayed start, the seminar proceeded successfully and concluded on time. The event energized students through engaging discussions, as well as tokens, souvenirs, and raffle activities.

The members also discussed in depth topics about Photojournalism such as qualities, ethics, types and responsibilities in photojournalism.