Extra! Extra! Eras of Photojournalism in Lethbridge

Lloyd Knight with his camera in 1948
Galt Museum & Archives | Akaisamitohkanao’pa, P19752910261

Photography and journalism have a long history in Lethbridge, dating back to the Lethbridge Herald’s first publication in 1906. Herald photographers have played a crucial role in narrating the city’s stories through their visual storytelling. More recently, the industry has gone through significant changes with the emergence of social media and various news channels. Photographers have expanded their roles to become photojournalists who not only take pictures but also write articles that provide a deeper understanding of the stories they cover.

Galt Gardens at Night, ca. 1940-1951 During his time at the Herald, Lloyd Knight captured this artistic shot of a solitary bench under a light in Galt Gardens at night. Galt Museum & Archives | Akaisamitohkanao’pa, 20151006-1212

Over the last century, technology has undergone a significant transformation. Thirty-five-millimetre film was the dominant camera format for many years until digital cameras began to take over in the twenty-first century. Today mobile phones have made it possible for almost everyone to carry a camera in their pocket.

Extra! Extra! Eras of Photojournalism in Lethbridge is a new temporary exhibit opening this week at the Galt Museum & Archives, showcasing many talented photojournalists who have worked in Lethbridge throughout the years. This exhibition highlights the work of six photographers, photojournalists, and a video journalist who have captured moments from 1933 to the present day. The featured individuals are Orville Brunelle, Lloyd Knight, David Rossiter, Ian Martens, Alejandra Pulido-Guzman, and Ose Irete.

Extra! Extra! showcases a wide range of photographs and articles that serve as both a historical resource and artistic expression. It aims to celebrate the work of photographers and the unique images they have captured, whether using pricey film or a simple phone camera.

Tire Fire, November 6, 2004, Firefighter Les Hilliard separated burning tractor tires at an industrial fire in West Lethbridge. The photographer cites this as another one of his favourite photos he took during his time as a Herald photographer. It appears in the November 6, 2004, edition of the Lethbridge Herald. Lethbridge Herald photo by David Rossiter

This exhibit demonstrates that anyone can capture a great photograph if they are in the right place at the right time. Visitors are welcome to explore the evolution of photography in Lethbridge and engage in hands-on activities with Extra Extra, on display at the Galt Museum & Archives | Akaisamitohkanao’pa (eternal gathering place) from February 17 to August 4, 2024.

Pride Fest, June 28, 2022, Residents take part in the Pride Parade along Stafford Drive South as they make their way to Galt Gardens for Pride Fest. Lethbridge Herald photo by Alejandra Pulido-Guzman