One Extraordinary Photo: AP photographer brings a ride at South Africa's 'Rand Easter Show' a to life

Apnews - Apr 25th, 2025

Photojournalist Themba Hadebe, celebrated for his work with the Associated Press over 26 years, has captured an extraordinary image at Johannesburg's annual Rand Easter Show. The photograph, showcasing the vibrant energy of the event, was crafted using a slow shutter speed and wide depth of field. This technique resulted in a dynamic composition with a blurred background and a partially sharp subject, effectively conveying a sense of motion and excitement.

The Rand Easter Show is one of Johannesburg's longest-standing traditions, attracting visitors with its lively atmosphere and various attractions. Hadebe's photograph not only encapsulates the spirit of the event but also highlights the artistry involved in photojournalism. This image contributes to the broader narrative of capturing cultural moments and serves as a testament to the visual storytelling strength of the Associated Press's 'Ones' series. The photograph's significance lies in its ability to tell a story through movement and expression, resonating with viewers and emphasizing the craft of visual journalism.

Cultural Events Photography Associated Press Photojournalism Themba Hadebe Rand Easter Show Johannesburg Visual Storytelling

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

7.2

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides an insightful look into Themba Hadebe's photographic work at the Rand Easter Show, with a strong focus on the technical aspects and personal interpretation of the photograph. Its strengths lie in clarity, source quality, and readability, supported by the credibility of AP and Hadebe's expertise. However, the article is somewhat limited in scope, offering a singular perspective without broader context or additional viewpoints. Its public interest and impact are modest, appealing primarily to photography enthusiasts or those with an interest in South African cultural events. While the article is timely in relation to the event it covers, it lacks the depth and diversity needed to engage a wider audience or provoke meaningful discussion. Overall, it is a well-crafted piece that excels in its niche focus but could benefit from broader contextualization and perspective.

Accuracy

The article provides a factual account of Themba Hadebe's experience as a photographer and his assignment at the Rand Easter Show. The claim that Hadebe has been an AP staffer for 26 years in Johannesburg is likely accurate, given his long-standing reputation and presence in the field. However, specific details about his awards and the exact technical specifications of the photograph (e.g., shutter speed and aperture) would require verification through additional sources or direct confirmation from AP or Hadebe himself. The description of the Rand Easter Show as one of Johannesburg's longest-standing traditions appears plausible but would benefit from historical context to confirm its longevity.

Balance

The article primarily presents a single perspective, focusing on Themba Hadebe's personal experience and interpretation of his photograph. While it effectively captures the photographer's viewpoint, it lacks additional perspectives, such as those of attendees at the Rand Easter Show or other photographers. This narrow focus may limit the reader's understanding of the broader context or significance of the event and the photograph. Including more diverse viewpoints could provide a more balanced narrative.

Clarity

The article is written in a clear and concise manner, effectively conveying the main points. The language is straightforward, and the structure is logical, making it easy for readers to follow. The explanation of the photographic technique is particularly well-articulated, providing insight into the creative process. However, the article could benefit from a more detailed exploration of the event itself to provide a fuller picture.

Source quality

The source of the article, Associated Press (AP), is a reputable and well-established news organization known for its high journalistic standards. Themba Hadebe, as an AP photographer, is a credible source with extensive experience, adding authority to the narrative. However, the article relies solely on Hadebe's account, without additional sources or corroboration. While this does not necessarily detract from the article's credibility, incorporating more sources could enhance its reliability.

Transparency

The article provides clear context about the assignment and the conditions under which the photograph was taken. It explains the technical choices made by Hadebe to achieve the desired photographic effect. However, it lacks transparency regarding the broader significance of the Rand Easter Show or any potential biases that might influence the portrayal of the event. More background information or acknowledgment of potential conflicts of interest could improve transparency.