lowlight...
Active member
I have mulled over the idea of adding my proverbial 2 cents to this discussion, and was leaning toward remaining in splendid isolation, as it were. The above referenced commentary, more than any other--even that containing the photo itself--must not be let to proceed without a reply.
The idea that you do not feel bad about what you describe as doing as a part of your job is something I find particularly disturbing. Each respondent likely has dealt with some tragedy of one kind or another; that is not the point. The point here, with respect to my objection, is that what is judged newsworthy is questionable to say the least.
I am reminding of the unfortunate task of having to confront a television "journalist" with much the same attitude, the very day of the murder of a loved one. Whether her alleged mind considered issues such as the event being a part of life, or the fact that she was just doing here job, I do not know. I do remember, however, that she was visibly irritated by my unwillingness to discuss the situation with her on camera. Lack of human decency is no excuse for doing one's job. If it were, the validity of careers such as heroin distribution or contract killing might merely be dismissed as being "part of life".
I do not say this to add yet another "sob story". I say it to illustrate my position that putting images (which are at LEAST as powerful as words) in the faces of people to intensify ( you, and others might say "to help tell the story") the impact of the story, is without question indicative of a sick, desensitized society. What was the song that referenced putting the widow on the set....I believe it was entitled "Dirty Laundry". Amazing how pertinent rock and roll music can be.
I find it incomprehensible that "media professionals" are not bothered by the presentation of such material. Reporting that someone died is one thing. Perpetuating the pain of the survivors, e.g. family members and friends, by publishing images such as these is quite another.
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never!
