Photojournalism is not just about capturing images; it's about telling stories that resonate with the heart and mind. This curated selection of documentaries delves into the lives of photographers who have risked everything to bring us the truth. From war zones to social upheavals, these films showcase the power of a single image and the dedication of those behind the lens. Whether you're a budding photographer or simply fascinated by the art of storytelling through pictures, this collection will offer you a glimpse into the compelling world of photojournalism.

The Bang Bang Club (2010)
Description: Although a dramatization, this film is based on the real-life experiences of four young photographers who risked their lives to capture the violence of apartheid-era South Africa.
Fact: The film was inspired by the book "The Bang-Bang Club: Snapshots from a Hidden War" by Greg Marinovich and João Silva.


Finding Vivian Maier (2013)
Description: Vivian Maier was a nanny whose extraordinary photographic work was discovered posthumously. This documentary explores her life, her art, and the mystery surrounding her identity.
Fact: Vivian Maier's work was found in a storage locker auctioned off due to unpaid rent.


The Salt of the Earth (2014)
Description: Directed by Wim Wenders and Juliano Ribeiro Salgado, this film follows Sebastião Salgado's journey through his career, capturing the beauty and brutality of humanity and nature.
Fact: The film won the Special Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival in


Under Fire: Journalists in Combat (2011)
Description: This documentary sheds light on the dangers faced by photojournalists covering war zones, highlighting their courage and the impact of their work.
Fact: It includes interviews with several Pulitzer Prize-winning photographers.


The Photographer (2000)
Description: This documentary delves into the life of Yousuf Karsh, one of the most celebrated portrait photographers of the 20th century, known for his iconic images of famous personalities.
Fact: Karsh's portrait of Winston Churchill became one of the most famous photographs of all time.


War Photographer (2001)
Description: This documentary follows James Nachtwey, one of the world's most renowned war photographers, as he captures the harsh realities of conflict zones. It's a poignant look at the personal sacrifices made to document human suffering.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in


Capturing the Friedmans (2003)
Description: While not strictly about photojournalism, this documentary uses home video footage to explore a family's disintegration during a child molestation investigation, showcasing the power of visual storytelling.
Fact: It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.


The Photographer, His Wife, Her Lover (2006)
Description: A unique blend of documentary and narrative, this film explores the life of photographer Eadweard Muybridge, focusing on his personal life and his groundbreaking work in motion photography.
Fact: Muybridge's work laid the foundation for modern cinema.


Frames From The Edge (2001)
Description: This documentary provides an intimate look at the life and work of photographer Art Wolfe, known for his stunning nature and cultural photography.
Fact: Art Wolfe's work has been featured in National Geographic and numerous other publications.


The Devil's Miner (2005)
Description: This film follows a young Bolivian boy working in the mines, capturing his life through the lens of a photojournalist, revealing the harsh realities of child labor.
Fact: The film was shot over the course of a year to capture the seasonal changes in the mine.
