On the Boundaries: Professional Photojournalists Navigating Identity in an Age of Technological Democratization

ABSRACT

In the wake of fewer and fewer professionals populating photojournalism, this study utilizes in-depth interviews with 21 professional photojournalists to better understand how they construct their identity. With a framework of social identity theory, this research found photojournalists consider clear role conception, adherence to normative journalism ethics and organizational backing as key components of their in-group. They consider professionalism as service, a lack of professional processes, and advocacy key parts of the out-group. These results are then interpreted for their effects on professionalism.

Keywords:

• Photojournalism
• identity
• in-depth interviews
• media sociology
• professionalism
• media ethics

Disclosure statement

This research was done with no financial interest by the author and no financial benefit is arising from publication. Also, no grants or funding agency supported this research.