Seminar discusses using visual media to address social issues

A social communication seminar in Port Moresby last week heard discussions on using visual media to highlight social issues in the country.
Catholic Bishops Conference secretary for social communication Fr Ambrose Pereira was the facilitator of the session that focused on using photographs to highlight social issues.
Issues dealt with were what participants were interested in, environmental abuse, domestic violence and Christian family values among them.
“As media animators, it is important to connect with people and highlight their issues,” Fr Ambrose said.
“Reflect on what emerges in your diocese and use photos to tell a story that will lead to a discussion.
“The participants then had a practical activity to put this into practice.
“Images carry stories and I learnt that the most important thing is the person holding the camera. The emotions portrayed speak louder than words,” said one participant.
Later that day, the participants visited the National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC), Port Moresby studio where they were shown around the newsroom and interacted with media personnel.
“Participants also had the opportunity to sit in the newscasters’ chair and face two cameras and a teleprompter.
They were privileged to interview some personnel of NBC on television, NBC radio and Tribe FM.
The staff were kind and open when answering queries to explain different departments, from production to broadcasting,” said Sr Evangeline Orpilla, from the Diocese of Vanimo.
Fr Ambrose urged participants to ensure a greater impact of the audio-visual and social media.