Walking into Photoville, I wasn’t entirely sure what I would be in for. I’m rarely in Brooklyn and never go to DUMBO as it’s a pretty far trip from the Bronx. But as I walked in, I was greeted by friendly and welcoming staff who were more than eager to help me navigate the various booths and installations. And it was such a gorgeous day for it as well. Walking through the event, there were so many interesting perspectives and stories being told I didn’t know where to begin.
The first set of photos’ that really caught my attention was Abbas Wiswall’s portraits of students in Bangladesh. As can be seen in the photos, the students are filled with such immense gratitude for being able to receive an education. The opportunities for education and social mobility is something people take for granted in richer countries and I thought it was really cool that he shed a spotlight on that. His use of the rule of thirds and layers really helped to make for some cool shots as well.
Covering a Crisis: Media Representation of Overdose in America featured some of the most personal, heart-wrenching and hopeful stories and photos at the event. Specifically, Monica’s story of being 2 years clean from a debilitating heroin dependency was particularly inspiring. In addition, Jordan Gales “It Is What It Is” journey from hard-partying to self-reflection and the portrayal of life in Cedar Rapids, Iowa was particularly poignant. Something that impressed me is the photographers intent to not seem exploitative but come from a place of compassion. It’s important that they’re stories are told, so viewers can see that they’re real people behind the numbers and statistics shown in the media. They’re not just telling these stories but humanizing them as well.
