My name is Jonah Peterson and I am currently a freshman at American University in Washington, DC. In college, I’m looking to learn more about how to critically examine the roots of inequality in society, as well as to hone my photographic skills, a testament to a passion that's been growing  since I got my first camera at age 13. At that age, all I knew how to do was point and shoot, nevertheless, my heart raced with excitement upon the sound of the shutter opening and closing.

 

As I’ve pursued my passion, not only have my artistic skills increased, but I’ve also developed insight on the power of photography to promote social change. I have consistently chosen educational opportunities to learn more about social change and global needs, whether through studying abroad in Kenya, participating in difficult conversations between people from different backgrounds at Seeds of Peace camp, or enrolling in an experiential learning high school that challenges students to “Get Smart to Do Good.” In my junior year, we learned about the influential photojournalist Jacob Riis, whose work taught me that images have impacts and inspired me to learn more about photojournalism and its intersection with social activism. Like Jacob Riis, I hope to some day reach a place where images that I produce contribute towards making the world a better place. 

 

This site is an attempt to capture my passions, to share the work that I’ve completed in the past and work I will hopefully create in the future.