Tear Gas & Pixels - What protest photography teaches us about truth, power, and not looking away.

This episode wasn’t planned.

But with federal troops deployed in Los Angeles, students arrested, immigrants targeted, and journalists silenced — it felt dishonest to pretend everything was normal.

In this special essay-style episode, I explore the role of photography in moments of protest and power:

• Why the frame is never neutral
• How truth is shaped, and sometimes distorted, by the camera
• The difference between documenting and performing
• What it means to be a witness, not a tourist

I also share a powerful on-the-ground reflection from LA-based photographer @chelsealaurenla, whose words remind us that not everything makes the news, but it still matters.

If you’ve ever questioned whether photography can change anything… this one’s for you.

Mentions & Resources:

• Follow Chelsea Lauren: instagram.com/chelsealaurenla
• Music licensed by Artlist.io

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