Stuart Hannagan, Getty Images Vice President (Australasia) and Director of Photography (Asia Pacific) and journalist/blogger Alison Stieven-Taylor were recent visitors to the Photojournalism class.

Stuart discussed the changing face of editorial and creative (stock) photography and gave us a glimpse behind the scenes of the new breed of global photo agencies, of which Getty is the world leader. His advice:

"If you are interested in a 9-to-5 job with an hour off for lunch, this business isn’t for you. If you want photography as a way of life, there have never been so many opportunities for young photographers, so build a good portfolio and get it in front of as many people as you can. Back yourself and keep chipping away. Never give up. Eventually you’ll be given a chance, and once you get started, don’t look back."

Alison presented an in-depth look at the constantly expanding online publishing opportunities for editorial material, including photo essays and documentary projects. Alison's advice:

• Look for stories in your own back yard
• Articulate your work in words and pictures
• Think globally – what subjects can translate across cultures?
• Be persistent, consistent and deliver what you promise
• Read and look at other work all the time

Getty Images Asia Pacific Director of Photography, Stuart Hannagan (3rd from left) and journalist/author/blogger Alison Stieven-Taylor (2nd from right) with PJ students Elliot Taylor, Daniel O’Neill, Melissa Davis and Amy Paton

Text and photograph by Bill Bachman.