Students have the opportunity to gain insight into the world of photojournalism as award-winning photojournalist Zoriah Miller visits campus today.
Miller is an expert in capturing human development in crises and has had experiences working in some of the most dangerous and harsh locations in the world. His work has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, The New York Times, Rolling Stone and Time.
Miller’s visit is part of a two-event series sponsored by the Global Center for Journalism and Democracy, where he will present a workshop on photojournalism and a lecture on his experience in the industry.
GCJD Executive Director Kelli Arena said the stories Miller has to share regarding his career experiences can impact students outside of the mass communication department.
“Miller has been all over the world and has amazing experiences to share,” Arena said. “He has an extraordinary gift of story telling through pictures. I expect to hear some of the stories behind the photos, the challenges he faced getting them and the impact those situations had on his life. Hopefully the event will attract not only mass [communication] students, but history, political science, criminal justice, art and psychology students who would all benefit from attending.”
In addition to this evening’s lecture, students have the opportunity to gain hands on instruction from Miller himself. He will host a free workshop today, giving attendees some helpful tips on how to tell stories through pictures and documenting the right moments.
Arena believes the workshop is a fantastic opportunity for students.
“This type of workshop usually cost hundreds of dollars,” Arena said. “The fact that we are offering it free is great for our students. Being able to communicate in various ways is important regardless of the profession you choose. Zoriah has mastered visual story telling. Students will have the time and opportunity to learn from a true professional.”
Arena said these types of visits from professionals are important for students to see.
“I’m always eager to hear from people who have witnessed history first hand,” Arena said. “There is so much going on in the world, and it is imperative to hear from people who have been on the ground.”
Arena hopes that, between the workshop and lecture, students will walk away with new ideas and knowledge of things they did not know before.
“If they come away with a different perspective, or having learned something new about the world then I will be satisfied,” Arena said. “I learn from every new person I meet. I’m very excited to host Zoriah Miller and to provide an opportunity to expose students to new information.”
Registration for the workshop has closed. However, tonight’s lecture is free and open to the public.
The lecture will be held tonight at 6 p.m. in the Gaertner Performing Arts Center Concert Hall.