Santi Palacios and Samuel Nacar, photographers: "We must reclaim credibility. All we have left is our reputation"
Photographers Santi Palacios and Samuel Nacar discuss the importance of credibility in journalism while reflecting on their respective works honored at the Luis Valtueña Humanitarian Photography Award.
Santi Palacios and Samuel Nacar, two prominent Spanish photographers, have recently engaged in a conversation reflecting on the significance of maintaining credibility in the increasingly challenging landscape of journalism and documentary photography. Both photographers have been recognized for their impactful work in documenting humanitarian crises; Nacar received the Luis Valtueña Humanitarian Photography Award for a compelling report on former prisoners in Syria, while Palacios was a finalist for his report on the flooding events in Valencia. Their dialogue sheds light on the nuances and ethical considerations that influence their photography careers.
In their interview, they discuss the key role that reputation plays in the field of photography, especially in times when misinformation is rampant. Both Palacios and Nacar expressed the necessity of advocating for credibility to counteract the challenges posed by sensationalism and the decline of trust in media. They highlighted that their dedication and passion for human stories compel them to uphold truth and transparency in their work, emphasizing the moral responsibility of photographers to portray the realities of the world accurately.
As they converse on a sunny terrace and later transition to a video conference, it becomes evident that their discussions are not only a personal reflection of their journeys as photographers, but also a broader commentary on the current state of media and its evolution. Their insights underline the vital connection between photography and storytelling in raising awareness about humanitarian issues, and how prioritizing integrity can inspire a deeper understanding of crises around the globe.