EVALUATING AUDIENCE PERCEPTION OF PHOTOJOURNALISM PRACTICES IN NIGERIA: OSUN STATE

This study examined audience perception of photojournalism practices in Nigeria, with specific focus on Osun State. It explored how photojournalism influences public understanding of current events, the role of photojournalists and editors in agenda-setting and framing through image selection, and the impact of digital technology on the practice of photojournalism. The research employed a survey design, utilizing a structured questionnaire administered online to a sample of 298 respondents drawn from the population of Osun State, determined using Taro Yamane’s formula. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency counts and percentages, and presented in tables for clarity. The findings revealed that photojournalism significantly shapes public perception and enhances understanding of current events, with many respondents acknowledging that photographs have influenced their opinions on various issues. The study also found that editors, through the selection and presentation of images, play a critical role in setting public agendas and framing how events are interpreted. Furthermore, while digital technology has improved the speed and accessibility of photojournalism, it has also introduced challenges such as increased skepticism due to image manipulation and the prioritization of speed over accuracy. The study concludes that while photojournalism remains a powerful tool for informing and shaping public discourse, ethical practices and transparency are essential to maintaining credibility. It recommends the establishment of stricter editorial guidelines, promotion of transparency in digital editing, and the implementation of media literacy programs to enable audiences critically engage with photo-journalistic content.