Member of the Month September 2020 Ernesto Torres
Q&A With Ernesto Torres, Photojournalist- KNBC TV 4 Inland Empire Bureau
When did you become a PPAGLA member? Became a PPAGLA member in 2011
How long have you been a photojournalist and how did you get started? I have been a photojournalist for 28 years. Since I was 13 years old I knew I wanted to be a television cameraman. I grew up in the Coachella valley and San Joaquin valley working in the grape fields with my parents and siblings, it was the work ethic, passion, and pride that my parents instilled in me that taught me to follow my dreams of an education and a better way of life which lead me to journalism and a visual storyteller.
I started in Bakersfield Ca KBAK TV, where I became a chief photographer for a year, Then onto Seattle Wa, KOMO TV 4, Tampa Bay Fl, WFTS TV 28, Houston Tx, KHOU TV 11 Based in the Mexico City Bureau for 3 years,Then also in worked in Houston for the same station KHOU TV 11, Then finally back home where I grew up in The Coachella Valley Southern California, Los Angeles Ca, KMEX TV 34 Univision, and Finally KNBC TV 4.
Please share some career highlights: I have traveled to El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Cuba, Traveled most of the USA. Was based in a bureau in Mexico City and traveled all of Mexico covering stories that were interesting and unique. I have Been on a navy destroyer, navy aircraft carrier, covered multiple hurricanes while working in Houston. Was part of the coverage for Hurricane Ike, Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans. Covered the Deepwater horizon oil spill in the Gulf Of Mexico. While in the Mexico City bureau I was part coverage for the visit of Pope John Paul II.
What advice do you have for students and those hoping to become photojournalists? My advice would be to never give up, to always work hard and believe in yourself. Trust your abilities and be confident in the belief that you can succeed especially if you have the passion and love what you do.
What is something you know now that you wish someone had told you when you were starting out? If you believe in something that is important to you never give up keep working hard on your craft, taking advantage of advice and critiques from people around you that have the experience and knowledge to improve yourself and your career.
What is your favorite part of being a PPAGLA member? My favorite part is all the learning examples and workshops that PPAGLA puts on to help you grow and become better at your craft. All the work examples of the colleagues and friends you admire and respect being used as tools for inspiration, Also having information on the PPAGLA website to help members during difficult times.