All is Not What it Seems

Michelle Malkin has a comprehensive wrap-up of the story of a photographer Bilal Hussein that has produced a number of photographs of the war in Iraq for AP.  The problem is that it now appears pretty clear that a number of these photographs were staged (not dissimilar to the "Pally-wood" that was discovered in the Palestinian territory -- see here for the footage).  It certainly is hard to believe how the photographer got such clear and well-framed photos during real action - but a lot easier to understand when it was staged!  Apparently, AP reports that Hussein may have been "detained" by the U.S. military.  For an extensive discussion of the selection, evaluation and use of photos in the media, read Neil Munroe's piece in the National Journal from earlier this week.  These "staged" photos affect and amplify public opinion, and the less than unbiased mainstream media seems to be complicit.  See also extensive post and comments at The Fourth Rail.