Having been with National Geographic for over a quarter of a century, American photojournalist Jim Richardson is at the top of his game. Contributing over 25 stories to the magazine since 1984, Jim is a prolific photographer who gets to traverse the globe, shooting everything from the tops of volcanic peaks to the surface of swamps and wetlands.
In January 2009, Jim had the privilege to travel for National Geographic Expeditions on their Around the World jet trip. Their jet took them to eleven countries in 24 days! What a dream.
Check out Jim's blog for some great behind-the-scenes stories about his work. Jim gives you rare, inside glimpse into what it takes to become a National Geographic photographer.
When it comes to the story being presented the photographers goal is simple: to be the smartest person in the room. To be able to present the picture story coherently, with passion and intelligence, and to be convincing and complete. If the photographer can't be convincing about the pictures why should our readers care. At the end the editor (Chris Johns) will ask to see the seconds, the pictures that were in the original tray but didn't make into the layout.
Note that these pictures that didn't make it into the layout are pictures that the photographer (me) sweated blood to make. And I have to convince everyone there that they SHOULD NOT be in the story, in favor of the pictures that were chosen.
P.S. That picture up at the top of t his post? It was one of my favorites from the Celtic Realm story. It didn't make it."
Jim Richardson
