Behinds Quote by Carl Mydans
“... I think it is fair to say that all war photographers hide behind their cameras. I hid behind mine for years and years and years. It was a shield... I think that the photographer in combat has a greater protection than the soldier who has a rifle in his hand. That camera has unbelievable protective power.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Photojournalist reflections, 20th century
War photographers use cameras as shields, feeling protected compared to soldiers, but this protection is psychological.
In simple terms: Cameras give a sense of safety in combat.
Key Takeaway
Recognize limits of perceived safety.
Themes
war
photography
psychology
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
cautionary
analytical
When to use this quote
- conflict zones
- ethical reporting
- personal safety
- stress management
Key Concepts
combat trauma
visual documentation
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your tool affect your risk perception?
- Can you separate observer from participant?
A Different Perspective
Camera shield is mental, not physical; danger remains.
![“I think you reveal yourself by what you choose to photograph, but I prefer photographs that tell more about the subject. There's nothing much interesting to tell about me; what's interesting is the person I'm photographing, and that's what I try to show. [...] I think each photographer has a point…” quote by Mary Ellen Mark](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/1e6/mary-ellen-mark-8293_interesting_i-think-you-reveal-yourself-by-what-you_1119245.jpg)
