Lynsey Addario

 A Life Through the Lens: Reflections on Lynsey Addario’s It’s What I Do

A Moment That Stands Out

One of the most compelling anecdotes in Lynsey Addario’s It’s What I Do is her gut-wrenching experience of being kidnapped in Libya in 2011. Her vivid recounting of those unsettling, terrifying days reveals the incredible risks she took to document the human impact of war. What struck me most was her resilience—not just in enduring the trauma but in returning to conflict zones afterward. This moment illustrates her relentless commitment to showing the world what others shy away from. It left me reflecting on the emotional toll photojournalists endure and the immense courage required to bear witness to humanity’s darkest hours.

The Unique Style of Lynsey Addario

Lynsey Addario’s photojournalism stands apart through her ability to capture raw emotion and vulnerability in the most hostile environments. She doesn’t exclusively document conflict; she connects deeply with her subjects, often earning their trust in moments of deep suffering. For example, her photograph of a wounded American soldier in Afghanistan conveys not just the brutality of war but also a sense of humanity and resilience (p. 198).

Her use of natural light and composition makes her viewer feel connected to the photo and moment. She captures her subjects with sensitivity, ensuring their dignity is preserved even in the most dehumanizing events and circumstances.  Addario’s approach is deeply empathetic, making her work resonate on an emotional level.

Relating to Addario’s Sense of Duty

Addario’s sense of duty to pursue photojournalism in conflict zones is both inspiring and terrifying. While most might think she’s reckless, I see her as someone deeply driven by purpose and reckless. Her work gives a voice to the voiceless and holds a mirror to the world’s unfairness. I do not share the same level of risk taking, but I admire her determination and ability to continue pursuing her dream regardless of the hurdles she endures. 

In my own photojournalism, I tried to remember her mindset of storytelling with purpose, just staying safer while I do so.

Lessons Learned for My Work

This term, I’ve kept Addario on the back burner while connecting with subjects with my campus photojournalism. One example was capturing exciting moments during LBCC’s events. Instead of just snapping photos, I engaged with students, learning their stories and trying to understand them which has resulted in more authentic and better overall images.

Her advice on patience and persistence also stands out to me. Like Addario waiting for the perfect moment to capture a scene in Afghanistan, I’ve learned to take my time and wait for the right shot or shoot away and delete later. 

Favorite Photos and Reflections

One of my favorite photos in the book is Addario’s portrait of the boy below. It is such a powerful image; his eyes reflect an overwhelming pain that words cannot capture. Addario described the immense personal struggle she faced when the photo was not published, despite the profound impact it had on her. After the long conflict with the editors, the photo was published by the New York Times. This is another example of Addario’s determination and sincerity with her subjects. The image is a reminder of the importance of documenting not just the happy moments, but the suffering is just as important and impactful. A quote from Lynsey that stood out to me is: “I am not a war photographer. I am a photographer who has seen war.”. 

 Conclusion

Reading It’s What I Do has been an eye-opening, anxious and heart-breaking read all at the same time. Lynsey Addario’s work is a testament to how the power of photography can drive change, evoke empathy, and hold humanity accountable. As I continue to develop my own skills, I will keep her life story close. I would recommend the book to not only anyone interested in photojournalism but to anyone just wanting to relax and read a great story!