Citizen journalism is a concept that is constantly being brought up in our CAP courses. From reading Riverbend’s whiny, yet very inisighful confessions in Baghdad Burning, to  writing our very own blogging entries, we are undoubtedly becoming more and more familiar with this impactful movement in the media. Lissy and Alec’s elucidative presentation described the impact of Where is Raed? on the political blogosphere, and the ever-developing practice of journalism. In their project, they highlighted some very significant aspects of this democratized broadcasting form:

• The first-hand account of events
• The ability to rapidly update a report
• The sincerity of personal experience
• The freedom to go in full detail

Sam Palax’s blog was catapulted to politcal blogoshpere fame as it effectively takes advantages of these four liberties. It constructs a very enticing and informational source for all aspects of the Iraq war. Perhaps his most absorbing medium of reportage is his self-taken real photographs.

In his February 25th, 2004 post, he documents a procession in Baghdad with an array of colourful images. I was particularly interested in this entry as its depiction of Baghdad was very different of the ones usually made by news TV footage. Iraq is usually shown as a gloomy, deserted dystopia. However, Palax’s images remind the viewer that this war-conflicted nation is also home to rich culture and traditions.

The fact that these photos were not staged but rather taken at that precise moment of the procession, makes the viewer feel as if they were present too. It is a truly innovative form of photo journalism, which before, in many occasions, was made up of dated and manipulated photos. Now anyone with a camera phone can be a photo journalist as it provides a quick and effective way to depict crucial information on any event.

 Also, check out how B.A. these kids look.

Talk about swagga goin’ swell.

– Marko Kundicevic