Your Photojournalism Survival Kit with Ron Haviv

A toolkit from an accomplished photojournalist.

Your Photojournalism Survival Kit
  • 12 video lessons
  • 4 hours and 12 minutes of class content
  • Streaming access on desktop and mobile browsers
  • 100% satisfaction guarantee

Capturing a story on film is a complex process. It demands an understanding of the issue at hand as well as the ability to condense, package, and pitch the story to a distributor. Successful photojournalists make a job of nailing down the details before a shoot and being prepared for anything.

In Your Photojournalism Survival Kit, Ron Haviv brings two decades of experience in building a photojournalism career on carefully laid groundwork. 
In this course, you’ll learn:
  • How to identify a captivating story and organize a plan for shooting it 
  • How to create a budget and a pitch letter
  • How to plan for any eventuality during the shoot, and cope with setbacks when they strike
Ron Haviv draws on his long career for anecdotes and suggestions for aspiring photographers. He’ll teach you that your assignment starts before you leave your house; planning, packing and preparing for even the best-laid plans to go awry is essential. You’ll learn tricks for assessing your preparedness, safety, and support while on assignment in the field.
Your Photojournalism Survival Kit is crucial for beginners, and for current photojournalists who may need to brush up on their checklists. Learn from Ron Haviv’s early-career mistakes, and lay the foundations of your own successful, impactful enterprise in visual storytelling.

Course Instructor

Ron Haviv

Ron Haviv

Ron Haviv is an Emmy nominated, award-winning photojournalist and co-founder of the photo agency VII, dedicated to documenting conflict and raising awareness about human rights issues around the globe.

Your Photojournalism Survival Kit with Ron Haviv is rated 5.0 stars by 40 students

  • isaac O. Jul 2, 2020

    Absolutely terrific class. So much useful information delivered with humility from Ron. Thank you Ron. PS: I'm so glad I subscribed to Creative Live.

  • Dave T. Dec 22, 2019

    I'm prepping for an assignment to Kenya, Ron Haviv's knowledge is invaluable. Thank you, Ron!

  • Kurt M. Nov 8, 2019

    Great class! So much information. Thank you Ron!

  • Levi H. Oct 22, 2019

    Awesome practical instruction from a master in the field of documentary photography! It is so nice to find a course with simple, practical, applicable information. If you are considering documentary or travel photography (anything outside portrait or studio) this is a good class to take.

  • Tonia H. Oct 18, 2018

    I practice travel photography (on my own dime) and really found this information very detailed and inclusive on the variety of issues we do not consider when traveling (i.e. money/credit card availability, perception of your business in country Photographer/Journalist, remaining aware of environment while taking photographs and knowing when to remove yourself for safety (it's so easy to get caught up in the excitement) when to be cheap and when to spend a little extra, research all travelers should do before traveling, etc. THIS IS REALLY AN EXCELLENT CLASS!

  • tz S. Aug 20, 2018

    While I don't have any plans to photograph in conflict zones, I found this class by Mr. Haviv quite fascinating. His background is legendary and his stories were amazing. Thanks.

  • suzy X. Dec 31, 2017

    Highly recommended! Ron Haviv's teaching and sharing is a valuable resource for any photographer on the field. Thanks very much!

  • A . Dec 16, 2017

    Thank you so much Ron. This class was so useful. To anybody who is starting out this is essential and to seasoned pros it's a good refresher and worth every dollar.

  • KAren O. Dec 1, 2016

    Thank you Ron and Creative Live for the thoughtful and expansive course. Even for a pro, the information was often enlightening and definitely inspirational. The best way to learn is from a seasoned professional who knows how to teach in an organized manner. Appreciate the support materials as well. Will be out shooting stories no doubt! All the best, Karen Ollis, Karen Ollis Photo

  • Keli M. Jun 24, 2016

    Exceptional class! Ron Haviv shares his experience in a humble and amazing way. Highly recommended!

  • Jerry B. Jun 13, 2016

    I think the course is good. However, for me, it really wasn't. I work as a photojournalist. What I was interested in was the resource guide. I thought with his experience this would have been more extensive. There is a lot missing from the list. It's a tough industry and gets tougher every day. You have to have a real passion for this field and Mr. Haviv really illustrates that. Anyway, I did enjoy the presentation from this very experienced photographer. I always love hearing about the experiences of others in the field. He really is one of the very best and the lecture was very enjoyable.

  • Jennifer L. Apr 28, 2016

    I echo what everyone is saying - this course is absolutely worth it. Thank you, Ron (and CreativeLive!)

  • F. Feb 8, 2016

    Amazing class, I learned SO MUCH! So happy to have VII in Seattle!

  • Connie K. Jan 24, 2016

    Ron Haviv presents his generous insights and experience in a wonderfully paced and very clearly delivered manner. Combine him with the Creative Live platform and you have a magical educational experience. I'm so grateful to attend this course. I wish I had heard a presentation like this years back; it would have spared me some mistakes. If you're sitting on the fence buy this course. Tap into his wisdom. Enjoy.

  • Peggy G. Jan 23, 2016

    Ron gave us the benefit of his 26 yr. as a photojournalist. His information was useful and I came away with ideas for a pitch of my own that will further my future plans.

  • Jackie S. Jan 23, 2016

    As a documentary photographer with a sincere interest in exploring more storytelling, I found this class full of what I need to move forward. thanks jackie sharpe images, LLC

  • Emilia O. Jan 23, 2016

    There are SO MANY things to take into consideration I wasn't aware of before this class ... I would love to see a class just on mind-mapping and pitch letter writing!

  • Hillary S. Jan 22, 2016

    So full of excellent, solid information. Thank you Ron!

  • C. Jan 22, 2016

    This course isn't about how to take a photo or structure a story, rather it's about how to be in the best position to take that photo and tell that story. Ron clearly and concisely communicates the processes and preparations he takes, from getting in to getting out safely. Ron's tips on dealing with clients, fixers, authorities and problems that pop up in unpredictable situations is invaluable.

  • Zavi . Jan 22, 2016

    A masterclass!

  • Ian L. Jan 22, 2016

    Great course. Great info

  • Adam M. Jan 22, 2016

    I have an upcoming trip to Paris and learning from Ron makes me feel so much prepared. His 20+ years of experience gave me so much to think about. Thanks Ron!

  • A. Jan 22, 2016

    Ron has managed to distill 25 plus years of hard earned photo experience down into easily understood steps, conepts and principles. Wether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro there is something to learn here. Especially, the importance of being professional wether you work in fashion or in a conflict. One of the greats! Thanks Ron!

  • L. Jan 22, 2016

    I just wanted to say, this class went way beyond just using ur camera. Treating others as you would want to be treat, is an international sign of kindness. The gear, boarding, what to carry, what not to carry, are keys to a fine developed seasoned traveler. Thanks for ur input. kj

  • N. Jan 22, 2016

    I had the pleasure of listening to Ron & meeting him at the 2015 eyeem NYC photography festival, he was one of my favorite speakers so I thought I should check this out. Fantastic information, although photojournalism is not my path I really found it interesting!

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