Battle Lines Photographing war, disease and nuclear accidents with Simon Townsley
Dec 24, 2025
This week, international photojournalist Simon Townsley shares riveting experiences from nearly 40 years of documenting conflict and disease. He discusses impactful assignments in 2025 across countries like Sierra Leone and Guyana, highlighting the stark contrast of local poverty amidst oil booms. Simon reflects on the ethics of photojournalism, revealing the emotional demands of capturing trauma, such as mothers identifying their sons in war. He warns about the rise of AI in imagery and emphasizes the enduring power of authentic still photography.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Girls Waiting In Guyana Ghetto
- Simon described meeting three teenage girls in a Guyana ghetto and photographing them at night after initial suspicion turned to trust.
- The photo aimed to capture their uncertain future and the feeling of 'waiting for something to happen.'
Ibrahim's Pain And Desperation
- Simon recounted photographing Ibrahim in Sierra Leone who was in extreme pain from MPOX and opportunistic infections and agreed to be photographed despite agony.
- Ibrahim and his family's decision to try a faith healer highlighted lack of diagnostic resources and desperate choices.
Truth Faces Resistance From Authorities
- Authorities and those wanting to hide wrongdoing resist journalists, while affected people often welcome exposure.
- Simon found this dynamic during coverage of toxic mine waste in Zambia and other disasters.