“Everything changes at war – even protective equipment can become a threat,” photojournalist Yan Dobronosov on working under the sights of drones

War changes not only people’s lives but also the rules of journalists’ work. What was previously considered a mandatory element of security can now pose an additional threat. This and other challenges of working in wartime are discussed by photojournalist Yan Dobronosov of the Telegraph in a commentary for the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine (NUJU).

According to him, in such conditions, one often has to choose between safety and mobility. A bulletproof vest and helmet, which weigh about 15 kilograms, significantly complicate movement. But, the greatest concern is that protective equipment can attract the attention of enemy drones.

In addition to security challenges, Yan notes a difficult psychological situation. The enemy’s successes on the front and constant shelling are physically and morally exhausting.

Despite everything, Yan continues to shoot his own. “Because I understand that it is my job to show people what the reality of war looks like,” the journalist concludes.

NUJU Information Service