VickramBahl.com

Seeing is believing ?

Photography, a hobby that I picked up early in life, has helped me a great deal later in my profession life as a journalist.

But, let us experiment a bit ! 

Take a look at the picture on the left. Does it look like a friendly place to visit ? What type of report do you think could accompany this picture ?

If the report said that the army was out in this city of a middle eastern country and the buildings and streets were deserted, would you say this picture is a good representation?

Now, take a look at this picture on the left. Does it look like a friendly place to be ? What type of report do you think could accompany this picture ?

If the report said that life was absolutely normal in the city and the security forces were seen only in some corners keeping a watchful eye to enhance security for the common citizens, would you say the picture was a good representation ?

The truth is that these photos were taken from the same spot at an interval of 2 minutes. No editing has been done to the pictures. You can check it out by the position and size of the tree, building and armored vehicle in both the pictures. It is the angle and the content that make all the difference. Therefore, when they say a picture tells the story of a thousand words, it is true. However, even if the pictures are absolutely genuine, the story they tell has to be interpreted.

Over the years I have seen pictures used - shot from a particular angle - to enhance a half truth and stretch the imagination of the viewer.

I hope this experiment will prove that not only is it important to read between the lines but it is also vital to see the complete picture before judging.

Two more from my collection !

SPIRIT OF CHRISTMAS  :  A college time experience that has stayed with me and I share with you.

SEEING IS BELIEVING ?  : An experiment on how the journalist can stretch the imagination of his audience, augmented with photos.

WILL WE EVER LEARN TO CO-EXIST ?  :  A question we all need to ask ourselves. The answer ? Well, read on...

CONFLICT IN THE TWILIGHT  :  When has war ever been fair just or necessary?

THE PERFECTIONIST  :  A club so exclusive that one may be the only member present most of the time !