Michael Coyne, the writer of some of the magazine's most orgasmic articles (see last issue), takes a pause to look at how much time we really need to capture our best work.

"To make a deep, incisive, informative documentary series of images, you need time. There is no point in just dropping into a situation, grabbing whatever you can and hoping for the best.

While working on a book about Jesuit priests around the world, Second Spring: The Regeneration of the Jesuits, I embedded myself with them for over three years, journeying from Rome to remote areas in jungles, deserts, refugee camps, war zones and university campuses (like Georgetown in Washington). Much of the time was spent listening, travelling, waiting and looking for something to photograph that would illustrate the event or situation I was witnessing. Sometimes transport was only available on certain days, so I was forced to spend more time in a particular location, but having the extra time was helpful because it allowed me to seek out interesting photo opportunities without any pressure.

'International award-winning Australian photographer, Patrick Brown said, “It’s more important for me to stay with a subject for a period, rather than parachute in to take a few photos. I’d rather become involved with the story, try to understand it in my own way.”

Michael certainly agrees - and you can read more of his thoughts on capturing great documentary photos in the current issue of Better Photography magazine! Current subscribers just have to login to read online or download to their device. Not a subscriber? I'd love you to join and help support our small community. For just AUS $29.88 (it's 40% off, but you must use the coupon code BP40) you can subscribe for one year and have access to over 50 back issues as well. Subscribe now - visit our website here - https://www.betterphotographyeducation.com/better-photography-online/about-the-magazine