Entertainment
17 January, 2025
Word is on the street
EXPERIENCED photojournalist Brian Cassey has praised the work of 10 teenage photographers whose work goes on display in Cairns tonight.
Photography enthusiasts among the youth of Cairns have had a chance to explore the world of photojournalism, documenting social and cultural happenings in their everyday lives, with their work being on display at Cairns Court House Gallery from today at 6pm.
The young photojournalists aged 15-17 worked under the guidance of Mr Cassey and Cairns Local News cadet journalist Isaac Colman, exploring the world of photojournalism as they set their own assignments.
A perfect companion exhibition to Brian Cassey’s A Photographer’s Life Part Three and Head On Foundation’s Paper Tigers, Word on the Street offers a local documentation of Cairns through the eyes of the youth.
Involved closely with participants, Mr Cassey said he was surprised by the quality of work of participants.
“They had really excelled themselves,” he said.
“The entirety of work I had received was surprising and interesting.”
Meeting at Trinity Bay State High School each Wednesday participants shared and discussed different pieces they had captured while considering various elements and factors of photojournalism.
Having worked extensively with the high school for almost a decade, Mr Cassey said he hoped the program continued.
“It’s beautiful to see students embracing it,” he said.
“I thoroughly enjoy interacting with students from Trinity Bay State High School, as well as students from throughout the region.
“I’ve judged the Trinity Bay State High School photographic portrait prize for nine years.
“Every year, the work gets better than the last.”
Mr Cassey said it was refreshing to see students consider feedback, understand it and implicate it into their piece.
“I thoroughly enjoyed it,” he said.
“It’s a great opportunity, for me as a lifetime photographer, to give something back.”
