News Photographers I Admire: From Icons to Friends, and Why You Should Follow Them

As someone deeply immersed in news and editorial photography, I’m often asked:

“Who inspires you?”

“If I want to become a news photographer, who should I follow?”

The truth is, this isn’t a list of distant heroes. These are people I’ve admired for years — some I’ve shared press pits with, others I’ve never met but follow closely. They each bring something unique to the field of visual journalism: consistency, emotion, grit, elegance, and that ability to be there at the right moment. And sometimes, before the right moment.

Christopher Furlong — @christopherfurlong

A Getty Images staff photographer whose work often defines how we remember major UK moments. Whether covering protests, royals, or the Pope in Rome, Furlong brings elegance and precision to every frame. His compositions are technically perfect but never lose their emotional charge.

Jeff J Mitchell — @mitchelljeff

One of the most intuitive eyes in the UK today. Jeff captures events — from Scottish politics to human drama — with a mix of sharp instinct and poetic timing. His work has a cinematic quality, often turning a fleeting moment into something iconic.

Alberto Pizzoli — @apzpix

Alberto brings a refined, almost classical eye to modern photojournalism. Working with AFP, his Vatican and Italian coverage is both documentary and almost painterly. A true master of geometry and light, he finds grace in everything from protests to papal blessings.

Jeremy Sutton-Hibbert — @jshphotog

Jeremy’s strength lies in long-form documentary. Based in Scotland, he’s spent decades covering social change, migration, and life across the Balkans. His work is intimate, respectful, and deeply human — the kind of storytelling that lives beyond the front page.

Franco Origlia — @francooriglia

Franco captures the visual soul of Rome like few others. A regular contributor to Getty, his images of religious life, politics, and daily moments in the Eternal City are layered and thoughtful. Always composed. Always compelling.

Samir Hussein — @samhussein1

Known for his glamorous red carpet and royal imagery, Samir brings a level of refinement that transforms celebrity photography into elegant storytelling. His ability to get close, while maintaining distance and dignity, sets him apart.

Chris Jackson — @chrisjacksongetty

Chris is one of the most recognisable names in royal photography. His long-standing access to the British Royal Family gives him rare opportunities — but it’s his respect for the moment and attention to light, framing, and emotion that makes his images stand out.

Women Who Redefine the Frame

While this list grew organically — mostly from colleagues and photographers I’ve followed closely — I’d be remiss not to include a few extraordinary women whose work continues to shape the global conversation. Their storytelling, range, and courage add depth to the entire field.

Lynsey Addario — @lynseyaddario

Pulitzer Prize–winning and relentless in pursuit of truth, Lynsey’s photojournalism in conflict zones from Afghanistan to Sudan has redefined how we see war — especially through the lens of gender. Her work is equal parts powerful, elegant, and necessary.

Nicole Tung — @nicoletung

Nicole’s reportage from Ukraine, Syria, and beyond blends intimacy and clarity with astonishing consistency. She captures trauma and resilience with a sensitivity that elevates her work beyond news into long-term memory.

Laura Lezza — @lauralzphoto

A Livorno -based Getty photographer with a knack for balancing news urgency with fine art subtlety. Whether she’s covering migration, Southern Italian life, or climate issues, Laura’s work is grounded in empathy and delivered with incredible visual discipline.

Final Thoughts

This isn’t a definitive list — nor should it be. But these are the photographers I return to often. For inspiration. For perspective. For reminders of why this job matters.

If you’re stepping into news photography, follow these names. Study them. Not to imitate, but to understand what it takes — the craft, the discipline, the instinct. And above all, go out and make your own frames. 

Because nothing replaces being there.