Beginning of the story: The role of visual journalism in crisis
From riots to cyclones, visual journalists risk their lives and wellbeing to document truth. But as the lens reveals human dignity amid chaos, who protects the storytellers themselves?
In times of crisis, visual journalism is one of the most powerful forms of storytelling. Through images and footage, the world witnesses not only chaos and destruction, but also moments of resilience, courage, and humanity.
Whether covering a riot unfolding in the heart of a city or a cyclone devastating coastal villages, visual journalism carries a crucial responsibility: to document the truth with care, accuracy, and ethical sensitivity.
Before stepping into any crisis zone, understanding the context is essential. Journalists covering riots must be aware of the underlying social and political tensions, the groups involved, and the prevailing sentiment on the ground.
Similarly, when reporting on natural disasters such as cyclones, it is vital to follow weather updates, heed official warnings, and study historical data about the region. Familiarity with the geography of an area can mean the difference between navigating danger safely or being caught off guard. Connecting with local journalists, aid workers, or residents can also provide invaluable insights into both the risks and the stories that need to be told.
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Preparation is not only about knowledge—it is also about safety and equipment. Journalists entering these environments must be equipped with reliable cameras, backup batteries, audio recorders, and protective gear suited to the situation. Working in pairs or small teams can increase safety and support better decision-making in tense moments.
Once in the field, visual journalists face a constant challenge: how to document pain and trauma without exploiting it. The goal should be to highlight human dignity, even in suffering. Images must tell complete stories—not only of loss, but of survival and strength. Framing subjects at eye level fosters respect and connection. Cultural sensitivity is equally vital; respecting local customs around mourning, dress, or religious rituals helps avoid misrepresentation or offence. Visual journalism has the power to inform, but it also has the power to harm. Responsible choices matter.
What often goes unspoken is the toll these assignments take on journalists themselves. Repeated exposure to violence, disaster, and grief can leave deep emotional scars. Speaking with peers, accessing professional therapy, and maintaining self-care routines can make a critical difference. Media organisations also have a responsibility to provide mental health support, debriefing sessions, and compassionate leave after traumatic assignments.
From my own career, I have felt this weight firsthand—whether standing amid the ruins of Rana Plaza where more than 1,300 people lost their lives, documenting the harrowing blaze in Old Dhaka, or covering the recent plane crash at Milestone School. The images and sounds from these tragedies linger long after the assignment ends. At times, PTSD has left me with gaps in memory, as though my mind has tried to shield itself from the worst moments. I have learned to cope by leaning on my family, creating space for quiet reflection through meditation, and seeking guidance from mental health professionals. These steps have not erased the pain, but they have helped me carry it in a way that does not consume me entirely.
Covering crises—whether sparked by social unrest or natural catastrophe—is among the most vital yet difficult tasks a visual journalist can undertake. It demands not only technical skill and courage, but also a deep commitment to ethics and humanity. It further requires recognition that journalists are not machines—they are witnesses who carry the emotional weight of what they document.
As the world faces increasingly frequent and intense crises, the role of responsible visual journalism has never been more important. Through thoughtful preparation, ethical storytelling, and an awareness of mental health, journalists can continue to shed light in moments of darkness—while also protecting themselves in the process.
In times of crisis, visual journalism is one of the most powerful forms of storytelling. Through images and footage, the world witnesses not only chaos and destruction, but also moments of resilience, courage, and humanity.
Whether covering a riot unfolding in the heart of a city or a cyclone devastating coastal villages, visual journalism carries a crucial responsibility: to document the truth with care, accuracy, and ethical sensitivity.
Before stepping into any crisis zone, understanding the context is essential. Journalists covering riots must be aware of the underlying social and political tensions, the groups involved, and the prevailing sentiment on the ground.
Similarly, when reporting on natural disasters such as cyclones, it is vital to follow weather updates, heed official warnings, and study historical data about the region. Familiarity with the geography of an area can mean the difference between navigating danger safely or being caught off guard. Connecting with local journalists, aid workers, or residents can also provide invaluable insights into both the risks and the stories that need to be told.
Preparation is not only about knowledge—it is also about safety and equipment. Journalists entering these environments must be equipped with reliable cameras, backup batteries, audio recorders, and protective gear suited to the situation. Working in pairs or small teams can increase safety and support better decision-making in tense moments.
Once in the field, visual journalists face a constant challenge: how to document pain and trauma without exploiting it. The goal should be to highlight human dignity, even in suffering. Images must tell complete stories—not only of loss, but of survival and strength. Framing subjects at eye level fosters respect and connection. Cultural sensitivity is equally vital; respecting local customs around mourning, dress, or religious rituals helps avoid misrepresentation or offence. Visual journalism has the power to inform, but it also has the power to harm. Responsible choices matter.
What often goes unspoken is the toll these assignments take on journalists themselves. Repeated exposure to violence, disaster, and grief can leave deep emotional scars. Speaking with peers, accessing professional therapy, and maintaining self-care routines can make a critical difference. Media organisations also have a responsibility to provide mental health support, debriefing sessions, and compassionate leave after traumatic assignments.
From my own career, I have felt this weight firsthand—whether standing amid the ruins of Rana Plaza where more than 1,300 people lost their lives, documenting the harrowing blaze in Old Dhaka, or covering the recent plane crash at Milestone School. The images and sounds from these tragedies linger long after the assignment ends. At times, PTSD has left me with gaps in memory, as though my mind has tried to shield itself from the worst moments. I have learned to cope by leaning on my family, creating space for quiet reflection through meditation, and seeking guidance from mental health professionals. These steps have not erased the pain, but they have helped me carry it in a way that does not consume me entirely.
Covering crises—whether sparked by social unrest or natural catastrophe—is among the most vital yet difficult tasks a visual journalist can undertake. It demands not only technical skill and courage, but also a deep commitment to ethics and humanity. It further requires recognition that journalists are not machines—they are witnesses who carry the emotional weight of what they document.
As the world faces increasingly frequent and intense crises, the role of responsible visual journalism has never been more important. Through thoughtful preparation, ethical storytelling, and an awareness of mental health, journalists can continue to shed light in moments of darkness—while also protecting themselves in the process.
Munir Uz Zaman has been working for AFP for the past 17 years.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.
