#SafetyInFocus: Photojournalists at risk

New York City photojournalist John Minchillo moves into position to photograph a teargas canister set off by St. Paul Police officers on a crowd, Thursday, May 28, 2020, in St. Paul, Minn. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

Photojournalists face enormous safety and security challenges. They are easily identified, they carry heavy, often expensive equipment, and by necessity need to be close to the action, all making them particularly vulnerable. By sharing their experiences and through our  #SafetyInFocus campaign, CPJ is highlighting the risks photojournalists face in the line of duty and just how high the cost of a photo can be. 

Videos: What are the risks?

More CPJ coverage of photojournalists

AP/Wilfredo Lee

Since 1992, when CPJ began to systematically track the killings of journalists worldwide, 173 photographers have been killed while carrying out their work. In 2020, CPJ documented 20 photojournalists behind bars.

Infographic designed by Debbie Ullman/United Photo Industries

Are you a photographer in need of advice?

Ask an expert. If you, a colleague, or your organization has a safety-related question and would like to work with a CPJ expert, please complete a form for journalists or for newsrooms.

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