NUJ to form first photographers' branch in union's history
NUJ National Executive Committee votes for new London Photographers' branch
– 2 min read
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The first ever photographers' branch in the history of the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) is soon to be launched in London, the NUJ has confirmed.
Last week the National Executive Committee of the NUJ voted to form a new London Photographers' Branch, marking the first time members have been organised into a branch on the grounds of the job they do, rather than the sector of the industry they work in.
"We want to ensure that our members have an effective voice in and through the union. The new London photographers branch will be all about giving members the opportunity to campaign on the issues that matter to them," said Michelle Stanistreet, NUJ deputy general secretary.
"Whether it's fighting cutbacks, highlighting the problems of covering public events or standing up for copyright, this new branch will give London photographers a chance to make their voices heard.
"NUJ members interested in transferring to the new branch should contact the union to let us know."
The NUJ has recently supported protests against Guardian News & Media's decision to change photographers' reproduction fees and licences and a campaign to raise awareness of the effect of the Counter Terrorism Act on photojournalists.
Photographers in London now have the option of transferring to the newly created branch or staying in their current branches, such as London Freelance or London Magazine.
Jess Hurd , press photographer - and proposer of the motion to form a London Photographers Branch - said the creation of the new branch 'is a historic and exciting development'.
"NUJ activists are doing excellent work around press freedom, policing, rights and rates, the new branch will coordinate campaigns and support for photographers in London," she said.
Freelance photographer David Hoffman , who seconded the motion, told Journalism.co.uk that industry pressures and financial cutbacks meant that photographers needed to join together more than ever: "My hope is that the London Photographers Branch can inject a bit of energy and some unity. The branch is not just for photographers [who live] in London, but also for photographers who work in London."
