From Corps to Free to Guard to Force: One Photojournalist’s Journey and Perspective – by David J. Murphy | The Photo Brigade

From Corps to Free to Guard to Force: One Photojournalist’s Journey and Perspective – by David J. Murphy | The Photo Brigade: Every photojournalist has a different journey to get them where they are today. Said journey provides the experience necessary for growth and development. My journey began in the Marine Corps where I worked as a combat photographer. I spent the majority of my time in the Corps documenting award ceremonies, changes of command, promotions and training exercises. The training exercises were the most kinetic and fun.

When the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan started, I was not on the front line documenting the war, but instead stateside waiting for my turn to deploy. Had I not been given the once in a lifetime opportunity to attend the Military Photojournalism Course at Syracuse University, I would have deployed. Instead, I was able to spend a year learning photojournalism from one of the best schools for it. The school opened my eyes and allowed me to see photographs in a whole new light. I was able to gather a greater understanding of the importance of composition, lighting and moment.