Iconic Photojournalism Images to Know for Photojournalism I

Iconic photojournalism images capture powerful moments that shape our understanding of history and humanity. These photographs not only tell stories but also evoke emotions, challenge perceptions, and spark important conversations about ethics and social issues in Photojournalism I and II.

1. "Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima" by Joe Rosenthal

   • Captured during World War II, this image symbolizes American patriotism and sacrifice.
   • The photograph depicts U.S. Marines raising the flag on Mount Suribachi, Iwo Jima.
   • It won the Pulitzer Prize for Photography in 1945 and became an iconic representation of the war.

2. "The Falling Man" by Richard Drew

   • Taken during the September 11 attacks, it shows a man falling from the World Trade Center.
   • The image evokes the horror and desperation of the event, challenging viewers' perceptions of tragedy.
   • It sparked discussions about the ethics of photojournalism and the portrayal of suffering.

3. "Napalm Girl" by Nick Ut

   • Features a young Vietnamese girl running from a napalm attack during the Vietnam War.
   • The photograph played a significant role in shaping public opinion against the war.
   • It won the Pulitzer Prize for Spot News Photography in 1973.

4. "Tank Man" by Jeff Widener

   • Captured during the Tiananmen Square protests in 1989, it shows an unknown man standing in front of a column of tanks.
   • The image symbolizes individual courage against oppressive regimes.
   • It has become a global symbol of resistance and the fight for democracy.

5. "Migrant Mother" by Dorothea Lange

   • Taken during the Great Depression, it portrays a destitute mother and her children.
   • The photograph humanizes the struggles of migrant families and highlights social issues.
   • It is considered one of the most significant images in American history.

6. "The Vulture and the Little Girl" by Kevin Carter

   • Captures a starving child in Sudan with a vulture waiting nearby.
   • The image raises ethical questions about the role of photojournalists in humanitarian crises.
   • It won the Pulitzer Prize for Feature Photography in 1994.

7. "V-J Day in Times Square" by Alfred Eisenstaedt

   • Depicts a sailor kissing a nurse in Times Square on Victory over Japan Day in 1945.
   • The photograph captures the joy and relief of the end of World War II.
   • It has become an enduring symbol of celebration and romance.

8. "Saigon Execution" by Eddie Adams

   • Shows the execution of a Viet Cong prisoner during the Vietnam War.
   • The image shocked the world and highlighted the brutality of the conflict.
   • It won the Pulitzer Prize for Spot News Photography in 1969.

9. "Starving Child and Vulture" by Kevin Carter

   • Features a malnourished child in Sudan with a vulture in the background.
   • The photograph emphasizes the severity of famine and humanitarian crises.
   • It raised awareness but also sparked controversy regarding the photographer's responsibility.

10. "Afghan Girl" by Steve McCurry

    • Portrays a young Afghan girl with striking green eyes, taken in a refugee camp.
    • The image became iconic for its representation of the plight of Afghan refugees.
    • It was featured on the cover of National Geographic in 1985.

11. "The Terror of War" by Nick Ut

    • Captures the aftermath of a napalm attack, showing children fleeing in terror.
    • The photograph played a crucial role in changing public perception of the Vietnam War.
    • It won the Pulitzer Prize for Spot News Photography in 1973.

12. "Earthrise" by William Anders

    • Taken during the Apollo 8 mission, it shows Earth rising over the moon's horizon.
    • The image highlights the fragility of our planet and the unity of humanity.
    • It is considered one of the most influential photographs in environmental awareness.

13. "Lunch atop a Skyscraper" by Charles C. Ebbets

    • Features construction workers eating lunch on a beam high above New York City.
    • The photograph captures the spirit of American workers during the Great Depression.
    • It symbolizes the risks and resilience of laborers in the industrial age.

14. "Birmingham" by Charles Moore

    • Shows the violent response to civil rights protests in Birmingham, Alabama.
    • The image highlights the struggle for racial equality in the United States.
    • It played a significant role in raising awareness of civil rights issues.

15. "The Burning Monk" by Malcolm Browne

    • Captures a Buddhist monk self-immolating in protest against the Vietnam War.
    • The photograph shocked the world and drew attention to the plight of Buddhists in Vietnam.
    • It became a powerful symbol of protest and sacrifice.