Dave Jackson is one of the artists featured in PL130 Gallery's photography show Off Topic, a photo show about the unassigned work of photojournalists who worked for the Philadelphia Inquirer and Daily News since the 80s. This week we caught up with Dave to learn more about his work and experience.
How did you first get into photography? And how did you make your way into becoming a photojournalist?
I had purchased a stolen camera from a kid on the streets of Trenton, NJ. I went to night school at what is now known as The University Of The Arts where I met two photographers who worked at The Inquirer. It was long after that that I started freelancing for The Inquirer in South Jersey. And that's how it began.
When speaking about your photography, do you describe yourself as an artist, photographer, or photojournalist?
Photojournalist
In what years did you work for the Philadelphia Inquirer or Daily News?
1980-1999
Do you have a favorite story of an encounter with a subject either on an assignment or a personal project?
Way too many of them to have just one as a favorite. I guess meeting Bryan Grigsby for the first time. I walked away from that meeting thinking " I wanna be that guy"
What piece of advice would you give to a young photographer who is interested in photojournalism?
Tell the story as it is unfolding in front of you. Don't expect to make a lot of money! Enjoy it!
Is there anything else that you would like to add about yourself or work?
I loved being a photojournalist when I started and I still love it today!