Lyndsey Addario Book Report

"Hi, my love. How are you doing?" (Addario, 2). It's What I Do, A Photographers Life of Love and War a memoir by Lyndsey Addario is an intense recollection of  what it's like to be up close and personal recording some of the darkest, most horrific events in modern history. The aforementioned quote, from chapter one is from a call between Addario and her husband Paul. I find this to be compelling mostly because this is the first instance where Addario's work and personal lives leaves her in a state of conflict. While driving into an active war zone, she struggles with whether or not to tell her husband. For me, this stood out because I don't know if I could lie and pretend I was in a relatively safe environment. With that being said, I also don't know that, even with my ethics and values based on honesty, I could tell someone I loved that I might not survive the day. She goes into every situation not knowing if she'll come out the other side. Not only does she put herself in physical danger, but finds herself in situations that challenge her values and morality. She explains these sentiments on page 254 stating "And so, in a room full of some of the most vicious  fighters anainst the United States and everything I stood for, I stood in the corner and faced the wall as I drank my tea." Her photojournalism is nothing short of dedicated. There are multiple moments in her career where most people would tap out. She braved multiple crossfires, she also persevered through not one, but two kidnappings. Captured moments of the worst days of peoples lives and then moved on. Photojournalism is important, but it's not what I personally will choose to pursue in my life. I don't think there's anything wrong or crazy about what she's doing. Soldiers put themselves in the line of fire everyday; activists preach the dirty truth in an attempt to change reality, even politicians put themselves out in the public eye and work to change the world in a more professional setting. My only impressions of her career choice are that it's extremely brave, and unfathomably important. Not only is her photojournalism important, but she's incredibly good at it. Some of my favorite photos of hers are on pages 4 (top), 46, 67, 126, 174, 178, 189, 233, 274 (top), 280, and 336 (I know just a few)

KORENGAL VALLEY, AFGHANISTAN.American soldiers with the 173rd battle company, on a battalian-wide mission in the korengal valley, Afghanistan. 

Through night-vision goggles: JTAC Kevin Caroon, 28, 'sparkles' a target for the AC130 pilots above as he helps control close air support fire from above Yakachina village while on a mission with Battle company in the Korengal Valley. JTACs are Airforce-trained specialists in direct contact with the bomber pilots to call in airstrikes on certain targets while weighing and monitoring collateral damage potential. Captain Dan Kearney, the JTACs, and certain intelligence and communication specialists work as a team from afar but with a bird's eye view to help infantry troops on the ground. October 2007.  

(caption provided for picture at www.lyndseyaddario.com) pictured on pg.233

As for recommendations, I would to the right person. Most of my close friends generally don't enjoy memoirs, however compelling they may be. I would (and am going to) give this book to my grandma because it is exactly her cup of tea. Even though it seems like a doge, I would genuinely recommend the book to any and all I think would enjoy it.

Photo Story

In the 1870's, the Dentzel family became the first family to manufacture carousels. Starting in Philadelphia, PA, and it became a family business. The Historic Carousel and Museum in Albany is fortunate enough to have original Dentzel work, however, the bulk of the animals present on the carousel are carved and painted exclusively by volunteers.The Carousel is a nonprofit, it's been self sufficient and running for close to 20 years.

The oldest animal on display circa 1885. Presented from the Dentzel Family Carousel Collection. 

Kirby, an amateur carver at the carousel, seen here working on what will become Rajah, the Snow Leopard sponsored by Brooks and Rita Cavin.  

    

                Oregon's woman mail carrier Miss Minnie Westman.
Her story pinned to her chest for visitors to read. Westman will
be one of the stagnant carvings on the carousel.  

Summit, The Burrow sponsored by Bob and Gail Johnston waiting for paint to dry to get his tail. Named after Summit Lake where the Johnston family has been camping since the 1950's. The Johnston's choose a donkey in honor of their Arizona winters filled with  wild donkeys.

Neil, The Greyhound sponsored by Ted and Rita Powell who rescue racing greyhounds. Neil, their 7th greyhound lost one of his toes to an infection which is accurately represented on the animal. All the animals are hollow inside so when Neil unfortunately passed during the carving of the animal, the Powell's decided to put  his collar inside.

Week 10 forum

Topic 1: My best photojournalism



2) I like this photo mainly because of her facial expression. It was one of the few moments I was actually in the right place at the right time, which especially with the sports assignment I rarely was.
3) It reflects what I learned as a photojournalist because of where I was physically when I took this photo. At the beginning of the term I wasn't very comfortable with getting in peoples personal space. However as the term progressed I managed to get out of my comfort zone.
4) My approach to taking photos is much different. In all my previous photography classes it had more of an aesthetic approach, you don't need 100 photos of one thing, just focus and framing, lighting, a nice subject, etc. With this class its less of taking for the sake of having a nice photo, but more of telling it how it is (from and interesting and aesthetically pleasing angle). (see week 1 Humans of LBCC assignment... they're terrible)

Topic 2: My goals

Week 1 Goal response: My goals for this class are to improve my skills in photography, be able to get out in the field, and to maybe learn something every once and a while.

I think I've managed to achieve all of my goals (except for the good grade, we'll have to see). At least in my opinion I see improvement in the quality (and quantity) of my photos. As for going out in the field, I've gotten to do assignments not only in the field but up close and personal (especially the Sicktown Bout). Not only did I go out in the field but I met a lot of people and gathered some interesting information, thereby achieving my third and final goal.

week 8 forum

No.2: Women Are Casualties of Their Birthplace

I found this chapter compelling because it was interesting to read from a sociocultural viewpoint. In light growing up in rape culture, and factoring in our current political predicaments with the #metoo movement and recent abortion laws it was hard to read and not think about how the superiority of the male sex is cross cultural.

No.1: You will Die Tonight

I found this chapter compelling for the shear intensity of it. While that is a big part of what made the chapter, what I found most interesting is her composure and everlasting integrity. Even with horrifying things happening to her she still is respectful of others and their culture regardless of what happens.
Addario manages to capture not only the horror of war but the individuality of those who fought it. Describing her time in captivity and how different soldiers showed kindness, while others did not. She quotes, after being beaten and violated, "These men were the epitome of evil". Not to long after she writes "They had kindness in their eyes."
As far as my favorite photo, there is only one in this chapter depicting the four of them and the Turkish Ambassador to Libya in Tripoli

Hometown: Corvallis, Oregon

The Whiteside was declared a historic building in 2009. Constructed in 1922, the theater is coming up on its 100 year anniversary. Although it is no longer in use as a traditional theater, the building still makes use of its 800 seats hosting events and screenings of  movies ranging from classics to modern day favorites every Wednesday.

Daniela Vargas is a sophomore at Corvallis High School. Set to graduate in 2021, she plans on continuing her academic career at LBCC studying nursing. Getting a head start on her college savings, she works part time at Baskin Robbins.

May 24, at approximately 11:00 AM CHS students line up along the curb to advocate for climate justice. Many wielding signs, they began chanting, demanding immediate action for improving out climate. Lead by Julie Williams, one of the CHS PE teachers (right) and passing cars that enthusiastically showed support.

week 7 forum

Topic 1: My Hometown

1) I'm photographing Corvallis because that is not only where I live now, but where I have always lived (born and raised)
2) portrait of an employee downtown or a student at OSU, the farmers market, the courthouse or the Whiteside
3) the Landmark photo because it'll be difficult to take a new and interesting photo that everyone has taken a picture of.

Topic 2: Photo Story Ideas

1) Who: the volunteers at the carousel
What: the process of making an animal
Where: Albany Historic Carousel and Museum
When: over the course of the remaining weeks

2) Who: the GSA
What: meeting and events on and off campus
Where: DAC and other resource centers on campus
When: throughout the next few weeks

week 4 forum

Topic 1: favorite photos

I like Will's photo of the Harney County Library. Its nicely framed and has balanced contrast and lighting.
https://willreddekopp.blogspot.com/

One of my other favorites is Ashley's "Imbrie Hall". I like the mixture of the foreground and background because it adds dimension and interest.
https://ashleyrosborne.blogspot.com/

Topic 2: Lyndsay Addario

The moment that stood out to me the most was when she was kidnapped by the Qaddafi. It's not the fact that she was kidnapped, but moreover how she was perceiving the actions of the men who kidnapped her. She quotes "It wasn't the pain that made me weep; it was the disrespect, the fear of what was to come, and the knowledge that a grown Arab man could have so little self-respect that he could punch a completely bound and defenseless woman in the face." (282). I learned it's important to recognize you're still in someone else's culture as she proceeds to greet the soldier and his wife with a traditional Muslim greeting despite the fact that they had taken her.

LBCC Grad Fair 2019

2019 Graduation tassels available during LBCC's Grad Fair held in the Fireside Room May 13 and 14.

Boxes full of caps and gowns for graduates to pick up

Sicktown Roller Derby

#10 Cervix-A-Lot demonstrating sportsmanship before a jam.

#123 Psychotic Angel surpassing the main jammer for the Alter Egos #5637 Break Allegri at the Linn County Fairgrounds.

#55 Nemmasis seen here being the main jammer, breaks free scoring points for the Sick Town Derby Dames. Bouting against the Alter Egos on May 11, they win by a landslide 238-97.

Week 6 Forum

Sports shoot questions

1. Ballet rehearsal
2. Studio in downtown Corvallis
3. I'm most worried about not getting the shot. I just have to take as many photos as I can
4. Shots 
1. Overall: barr warmup
2. Medium: partner work
3. Closeup: across the floor practice

Week 5 Forum

   In her book "It's What I Do, A Photographer's Life of Love and War" Lyndsey Addario maintains an impressive narrative. What is most fascinating is her ability to  find the small details in horrific events. Through bombings and shooting with bullets flying she never fails to capture the smaller moments in the midst of horror. 

   While many of her photos are far from perfect, Addario manages to shoot some outstanding scenes. One of my personal favorites is shown in chapter 7 pg. 178 of three women in what I assume is Bahai (there is no caption). Between the colors and expressions of the subjects, the picture tells a remarkable story in regards to the chapter, "Women Are Casualties of Their Birthplace". The whole chapter in general is extremely engaging. Not only does it confront gender inequality, but racial as well. In this chapter she quotes "My Italian American, olive-hued skin had never been a liability before. I watched with horror as the little girl continued running, wondering what atrocities she must have witnessed at the hands of Arab militias." (188). 

   With the universal rule of do not disturb, Addario is presented with difficult moral choices. Remaining impartial is a challenging necessity when it comes to journalism. When you devote yourself to it you choose a life of at best, indirect activism. You can take photos and tell a story, however you have to trust that the story alone will change the scene. This is one thing I admire about Addario, her sacrifice to be a spectator to the greatest horrors the world has to offer, take photos, and simply witness. Putting a strain on herself and those close to her constantly risking her life to just maybe, get a shot that has some impact.

International Culture Night

Map at LBCC's International Culture Night put on by the international students May 3. This shows where not only where our students and visitors are from, but where they would like to travel.

The Pani Puri Dance Group performing "Kajra Re" and "Pairon Bandhan Hai", a dance originating from Bollywood movies. Performed in the Russell Tripp Theater May 3.

Japanese Dance Group performing the traditional Fisherman's Dance accompanied by LBCC students. Dance performed May 3, in the Russell Tripp Theater during LBCC's International Culture Night.  

The Chinese Dance "Blossom" as performed by the East Dream Dance Group during LBCC's International Culture Night May 3.

Portrait

Josephine Crofoot, a second year student at OSU is going for a degree in civil engineering. Having been born and raised in Corvallis, Josephine is no stranger to campus, however after having spent years simply enjoying the grounds, she is finally able to attend as a full time student.  When she's not doing classwork, Josephine spends her time as treasurer for the OSU chapter of ASCE, the American Society of Civil Engineers.

Earth Day

Chef  Andrew Wadlow grills chicken for the LBCC Earth Day celebration on Thursday April 18.

Guess speaker Rachel Snyder talks about the importance of recycling as a part of the Earth Day celebration. Answering the audiences questions and encouraging proper recycling Thursday April 18.

LBCC clubs line the courtyard Thursday April 18. Promoting health environmental standards and encouraging student engagement.

Week 3 Fourm

Portrait photo subjects:

1. Erica Baker
Business student at OSU
OSU campus/at work
Backpack and textbooks/work uniform
Contact via phone number

2. Josephine Crofoot
Civil Engineering student at OSU
On campus
Backpack and textbook
Contact via phone number

Self critique:
1. Best photo

Both the lighting and the angle work real well. The framing is great with good balance and the subject is in focus.










2. Worst photo
Completely washed out, the subject wasn't in focus and the photo isn't balanced.

3.Skill
The thing I've improved most on is taking different angles and balancing the photo

Lynsey Addario: My Thoughts So Far

    In the prelude, Addario recounts shooting in the middle of the Libyan war zone in Ajdabiya. Fast paced and high stakes contrast the more lighthearted  nature of the first chapter. While the subject of each chapter can be captivating, having a one sided perspective of an outsider tell her story seems odd to read.

   

   One compelling aspect of her memoir is her sheer dedication to capturing what others won't running into a war you're not personally invested in can seem stupid to some people, but for Addario it was about capturing the horror of it all.

   

    Even with all the devastation, Addario managed to shoot some incredibly intimate photos. Her involvement in her subjects is inspiring as a photojournalist.

    My favorite quote from her book has to be "Until you get injured or shot or kidnapped, you believe you are invincible" (7). The sentiment can be applied to any aspect of your life. You can do what you want until it kills you.

    The best photo she took (in my opinion) was captioned "Rebels call for volunteers to fight in Benghazi, March 1, 2011." (4) It shows the simplicity and desperation of the war. There were no civilians anymore, you can see it on their faces.

    

    

     

Photographer of the Week

Arthur Fellig, more commonly known by his nickname Weegee is a street photographer most known by his work at crime scenes. Originally Usher Fellig, born in the Ukraine on June 12, 1899, he decided to acculturate and change his name to sound more American. Weegee started his photography at the young age of 14, only a few years after his family moved to America. With no official training, Weegee managed to accumulate a portfolio as a freelance photographer working for reporters and newspapers. With a good reputation, he was granted access to a police radio in 1938. This lead to photos that would make Weegee an iconic name in photography.

Murder is my Business

With his radio, Weegee was able to be the first on scene capturing the gruesome and gory details of the scene. With his uncensored content, he became a photographical sensation moving past newspapers and reports and entering a more mainstream media. Not only was he featured in an exhibition, but he was also a published author. His first book, Naked City, published in 1945 was the first, continued by Weegee's people (1946) and Naked Hollywood (1953). After moving to Hollywood in 1947,  he returned to New York working as an author and instructor. He died December of 1968 at the age of 69, although his photos will continue to be an inspiration to the intensity of street photography.

Sources:

“Weegee.” International Center of Photography, 11 Apr. 2019, www.icp.org/browse/archive/constituents/weegee?all/all/all/all/0.

“Weegee: Murder Is My Business.” International Center of Photography, 6 Dec. 2016, www.icp.org/exhibitions/weegee-murder-is-my-business.

“Weegee.” International Center of Photography, 11 Apr. 2019, www.icp.org/browse/archive/constituents/weegee?all/all/all/all/0.

“Weegee: Murder Is My Business.” International Center of Photography, 6 Dec. 2016, www.icp.org/exhibitions/weegee-murder-is-my-business.

Humans of LBCC ll

Shea Fleetwood

Studying Bio research, Shea is dual enrolled taking classes at both OSU and LBCC. One of the hardest parts about being a dual enrolled student she says, is the transportation aspect. Its hard trying to take the bus to and from, especially in our current predicament, commuting between campuses presents a challenge. Shea decided to take classes at LBCC because it was more "financially charming". Not only are classes more affordable but Shea appreciates how LBCC has a more close knit community. While her classes keep her busy, she spends her time at home finding ways to make some work better by folding laundry while listening to music and dancing around.

Rhiannon Chuck

Classes can be stressful, and taking time off isn't always a bad idea. Rhiannon is putting financial stability first this term. Taking a break from academic study, she has decided to spend this term working full time at the campus bookstore. Even if she's not currently enrolled in classes, Rhiannon is planning to major in a medical field. Her current goal is to study physical therapy. Originally from Newport, Rhiannon moved here to LBCC because it was far enough away from home for her to be independent, but still close enough to home to go back and visit. Her favorite thing about LBCC is the variety of students that pass through. With such diversity, Rhiannon likes hearing about their unique stories.

Humans of LBCC

Audric Macone

Studying Psychology, Audric is planning to transfer to Portland State to continue his academic studies. With a friendly face (and an amazing buffalo shirt) his goal to have a career involving "something with people" seems an appropriate fit. His current goal is industrial and organizational psychology, also known as occupational psychology, a field that helps people increase their motivation and overall job satisfaction. With that in mind, his career choice still might still be "a surprise" to both himself and others. His favorite thing about LBCC is the math lab which he said helped him succeed in all his math classes. A daunting task for most students, math courses usually aren't easy, however, with enough help Audric was able to advance through the ranks and pass his classes.

Holly Lester

For Holly Lester a first time student this term at LBCC, her aspirations are pretty simple: become a registered nurse. After taking a gap year Holly has decided to study nursing here at LB with the homes of volunteering right away. at the moment she doesn't have any specialties in mind although she admits that might be subject to change. her first impressions of LBCC is how great it is, four days in and she's already ready to jump in head first. Her favorite thing so far about LB is how different it is from high school. She appreciates how open everyone is and how laid-back and easygoing both the staff and students are. Apart from being able to drop the f-bomb in class the overall atmosphere has been warm and welcoming.

Week 1

A little bit about me: This is my second year here at LBCC. I'm here finishing my AAOT planning to transfer after I graduate this term. My goal is eventually earn a PhD in Astrophysics and to do my own research.

My goals for this class are to improve my skills in photography, be able to get out in the field, and to maybe learn something every once and a while.

Subjects that would be cool to shoot would be any of our culture clubs, international ambassadors and other programs to support LBCC students in their academic endeavors.