An increasing number of published news images are no longer taken by professional photojournalists using still cameras. Members of the public are asked to submit pictures taken with mobile phones, communities receiving emergency aid are handed cameras along with food and photojournalists are now being given video cameras rather than still cameras to record events so that an editor can grab the decisive moment rather than the photographer.

All the above indicate fundamental changes to the traditions of picture news gathering. This research question considers those changes and the impact on the publics understanding of events and places. It also critically analyses ethical issues of authenticity and privacy in relation to these new methodologies.

Taken with a mobile phone by a local policeman supervised by a student photographer this image gives a unique insight into a policeman’s life in a small town in North East China. The student was able to identify and discuss the international symbolism embodied in the image.
Photograph: Yanbaoxu supervised by Zhao Xin, UK (the student was given just one day to take the image)