Matthew Naythons: Light In Dark Places

Why It Matters

Naythons’ story shows how photojournalism can bridge medicine, conflict, and democracy, reminding stakeholders that visual reporting remains essential for transparency and civic engagement.

Key Takeaways

• Naythons blended medicine and photojournalism during global crises.
• His early press card granted unprecedented White House access at 17.
• 1970s marked a second golden age of color photojournalism.
• Community support enabled his book launch and university exhibition.
• Photojournalism remains vital for democratic accountability and public awareness.

Summary

The evening event at UC Berkeley’s Logan Media Center celebrated the release of Matthew Naythons’ new monograph, “Light in Dark Places,” and a concurrent photo exhibition. Hosted by veteran photographer Ken Light, the gathering highlighted the university’s commitment to preserving and showcasing documentary photography.

Naythons’ career straddles two demanding professions—medicine and photojournalism. At 17 he secured a golden press card that allowed him into the White House for JFK’s funeral, later covering the Yom Kippur war and the Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia. His work exemplifies the 1970s “second golden age” when color film, pioneered by William Eggleston, transformed reportage.

Ken Light praised Naythons’ “chutzpah,” recalling how the young photographer called a pay‑phone to gain White House credentials. Michael, the new dean, echoed that “the work we do here… is part of the bedrock of American democracy,” underscoring the moral weight of visual storytelling.

The event illustrates how institutional support—grants, printing donations, and student involvement—can amplify the impact of documentary photography. In an era of shrinking press freedoms, Naythons’ legacy reinforces the need for visual journalists to document conflict, hold power to account, and inspire the next generation.

Original Description

Join renowned photojournalist and medical doctor Matthew Naythons as he discusses his extraordinary career documenting some of the most pivotal moments in modern history. From JFK's funeral to the fall of Saigon, from Nicaragua's revolution to the Jonestown tragedy, Naythons' powerful images capture humanity in its most vulnerable and resilient moments.

In conversation with UC Berkeley journalism professor Ken Light, Naythons shares the stories behind his iconic photographs, his dual career as an ER doctor and war photographer, and the ethical challenges of bearing witness to conflict and suffering.