Thursday, April 17, 2008

When religion and business and marriage collide

An article I found on the freedomforum.org website, discussed a New Mexico photogrpaher who was sued for not agreeing to take photos for a lesbian couples commitment ceremony. The photographer argued that she wouldn't take the job because it conflicted with her relgion. The couple sued and said Elaine Huguenin, the photographer violated the states Human Rights law and descriminated against them based on sexual orientation. The couple won and the photographer now has the pay for their trial and lawyer fees.


I have mixed emotions about this. One side of me argues with the ruling and I feel that she does have a right to say "NO, I don't want to take that job." After all, restaurants and other business always "reserve the right to refuse service" so why should this be any different.

However, on the flip side I agree. If Elaine expects to be sucessful and professional she has the be ready and willing to work with all sorts of diverse people. It's like with any job. You leave all your stress/problems etc. with home, lovers etc at the door and you do your job. Thats what this lady should do. She should put her religious beliefs on pause and do her job as a photographer.

To see the full article go to:
rulinghttp://www.firstamendmentcenter.org/news.aspx?id=19921

Friday, April 4, 2008

Multimedia grows

In a recent article on poynter.org by Steve Myers, he talks about the continued development of multimedia journalists and how we still have a long way to go.

Myer talks about the recent National Press Photopgraphers Association awards and the judges comments on this competition.

The judges point out whats working (audio, pictures etc.) and what isn't (making things too flashy).

I think a reason for this good grasp of the concept but why we still need to grow is because its a developing process. Colleges and universities are beginning to understand how much of a need we have for journalists who can do it all and so they're beginning to teach those video practicum classes and the like ,rather than the cut and dry reporting like before.

I think that in 5 years, you won't even be considered if you can't shoot film,take pictures, write your story and edit all while drinking a starbucks latte.