Mostly people who have never left the comfort of their own city. This is why World War I happened.

Exactly that smell. Welcome to the club.

Conflict journalist here. Covered Ukraine, Yemen, ISR/PAL, all the bells and whistles.

First of all, war isn’t as glamourous as we sometimes think it is. Conflict journalism is dirty, terrible for the brain and will make you an alcoholic or nicotine addict fast. You’ll see things you’ll never forget, and let’s not even talk about the smell.

You still on board? Cool.

Second of all, not exactly a profession that hires very often. Most of the people I know got into it by speaking a ton of languages, talking to the right people, landing a job and then meeting more people by that. Like the rest of professional photography, too.

Third of all, you’ll have to be exceptional in all you do. Exceptionally good photographer, exceptionally good writer, exceptionally good language skills, exceptional skill at not getting yourself killed by angry islamists who have decided you are their personal enemy. You get the gist. You’ll have to know the basics of Combat Trauma Care, not just the standard first aid. Many people recommend some sort of conduct training in a war zone, I personally never went to one and yet I’m alive, despite numerous groups trying to change that fact.

If you’re still not unconvinced, get yourself a trench coat, a plate carrier and a camera that you can repair blindly. And also send me a message, so we know where to pick up your body. All the best.