Got the word today that my employer will follow the Detroit Free Press and News' business model publishing only three days a week starting in June. This was not a surprise, as rumors filled the newsroom a week or so ago. Today those "rumors" were confirmed.
In addition, it was also announced today that 30-percent of the remaining staff would be cut, myself included.
So, come the end of May, when I finish my career as a newspaper photographer, I will wish my fellow co-workers who stay on the best of luck, because frankly, they've got a steep hill to climb. We had some great times together and I'm gonna miss some of those folks...
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Over the past few months, with the possibility of job loss looming, I created my own website. Assembling a collection of galleries really helped to clarify what I want to achieve as photographer. And what I realized, is, I'll always be a photographer. Regardless if someone pays me or not. The great thing now is that I can concentrate on what I want to photograph. For the first time in many years I am optimistic and excited about my photographic future.
Truth be told, I'll be happy to wash my hands from all the newspaper industry doom and gloom.
Image © 2009, Daniel Staudacher || Bay City, Michigan.