Los Angeles Times photographer Luis Sinco stresses the importance of photography and journalism

SAMANTHA BRAVO Managing Editor @sammybravo93

Photographers often face an ethical dilemma: help someone in trouble or take the photo.

Los Angeles Times photographer

Luis Sinco shared his stories during a lecture on April 20 in The Great Hall as a part of the Media Arts Speaker Series.

Sinco began his presentation by screening a video that took him about two years to complete. He documented the life of U.S. Marine James Blake Miller, who fought in the Second Battle of Fallujah.

When he returned home, he began going through depression and wanted to end his life.

“As a journalist, you’re not supposed to get involved with this guy’s life,” Sinco said.

When Sinco began sensing that Miller was suicidal, he interfered by telling him to seek professional help.

Sinco is known for the photos he has taken in Iraq, documenting the war. The last time he was in Iraq was 13 years ago.

He said even though his work sometimes exposes him to tough situations, like war, he says that there are many good things about being a photojournalist.

“It’s been a fun and rewarding job, and I appreciate the opportunity to tell stories that help promote understanding between people about issues, places, events and other folks around the world,” Sinco said. “It’s been a really good career for me. I’ve enjoyed what I’ve been doing.”

Sinco has been a photographer for Los Angeles Times for 20 years and has been taking photographs for 30.

During his lecture, Sinco said that it was difficult competing with photographers in the industry.

He said that once he got into the industry, however, photography opened up many opportunities and led him to several places.

“I traveled the world for the L.A. Times, news, sports, features, even to Coachella,” Sinco said. “Everything is changing. If you’re