Earlier this year, a journey through the National Parks revealed profound insights for journalists about the art of observation and the critical nature of storytelling. As part of a personal road trip, I discovered that the true value of these experiences lies not in photographs or souvenirs, but in the practice of attentive observation, solitude, and silence.
For reporters, observation forms the bedrock of effective journalism. While many may admire a breathtaking view, a journalist instinctively asks deeper questions. What forces shaped this landscape? What stories lie hidden within its features? The National Parks serve as powerful reminders of the importance of curiosity and inquiry in the field.
National Parks as Living Laboratories
Traditionally, National Parks are viewed as laboratories for scientists. Researchers study their geology, ecology, and environment, which contributes to advancements in medicine and our understanding of fragile ecosystems. Yet, these parks also serve as valuable classrooms for journalists. Even if a reporter never mentions a specific grove of Redwoods or a unique geological formation, the time spent in nature enhances their ability to observe and interpret.
Nature acts as an ancient archive. The rings of a tree provide a record of years marked by drought and abundance. A glacier captures centuries of atmospheric shifts in its icy layers. The presence of a desert reveals the remnants of a long-gone sea, while mountain ridges document millions of years of natural history. For journalists, these observations deepen the understanding of time, change, and resilience.
Many visitors find the landscapes of the National Parks awe-inspiring. This beauty is undeniable, but for reporters, the true lesson extends beyond mere admiration. The grandeur of a canyon illustrates not only its scale but also the incremental forces of erosion that shaped it over millennia. This parallel highlights broader themes in society. Just as a public square reflects the decisions about its design and use, the landscapes reveal the underlying forces that shape human experiences.
Shifting Perspectives in Journalism
The act of observing in natural settings reinforces the habit of looking beyond the obvious. It calls for patience, curiosity, and interpretation. Journalists must shift from wonder to inquiry, transforming attention into meaningful reporting.
Too often, the focus is drawn to the spectacular. Iconic vistas and tourist hotspots dominate souvenirs and social media. However, the quieter, less-celebrated spots, like meadows or shallow streams, provide essential lessons in endurance and the act of listening. These moments echo the core of journalism—attentiveness even when silence prevails.
To “report from a field” requires an understanding that the world exists independently of our desires. It encourages journalists to immerse themselves in environments that neither seek nor require their presence, allowing them to witness and document what unfolds naturally. This exercise cultivates humility and enhances the mission of journalism.
Sometimes, the most effective learning occurs not in press conferences or interviews, but in the stillness of nature. Observing a fallen tree, a volcanic ridge, or the frozen landscape of a lava-carved cave teaches reporters the value of being a witness. It instills a discipline of patience, vital for uncovering the stories that await revelation.
Through these experiences, journalists are reminded that their craft extends beyond the immediacy of breaking news. It is about engaging with the world, observing its nuances, and sharing the stories that emerge from both the grand and the subtle.
Dr. Wafa Unus, an associate professor of journalism at Fitchburg State University, emphasizes the importance of these lessons. As journalists, embracing the role of observer enriches our understanding of the world and the stories we tell.
By exploring the National Parks, journalists can deepen their craft, drawing parallels between the natural world and the communities they report on. The insights gained from these experiences can lead to more profound storytelling, reflecting the complexities and beauty of life itself.
