As a photographer, I have primarily covered general news events and sports. I've found a great joy in improving upon my photojournalism skills and can see growth between each assignment. It is imperative for a modern news reporter to be able to create images alongside a story, and I think doing both at the same time enhances the overall quality of the news.
General news photography
With general news photography, I think it is important to create images that allow the viewer to connect with the subject and understand the context of the story. Some of my general photography experience includes breaking news protests, summer festivals and stock photos of buildings and parking lots (because news can't always be flashy).
While acting as a photographer, I'm also always thinking like an editor: what photos I need for the online article, what will look good in print and what will capture attention on social media.
Sports photography
My main sports photography experience comes from shooting NCAA Division I athletics at Colorado State. I have covered men's and women's basketball, volleyball, softball and football. I particularly love photographing the CSU women's basketball team, and I think it is important to give coverage and attention to a generally under-appreciated sport as a journalist.
When going into an assignment, I make sure I know the specifics of the sport and context of the game so that I can get the best images, whether that's of a player who reached a special milestone or a tense interaction between rivals. I've also had the pleasure of shooting the same teams consistently, which has allowed me to adapt to specific styles of play and plan my photos accordingly.