Professor of communications, author, photojournalist
Paul Martin Lester (March 21, 1953 – November 12, 2023) was an American professor of communications, author, and photojournalist. He was Clinical Professor at the School of Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication (ATEC) and a Professor Emeritus from California State University, Fullerton.
Biography
Paul Martin Lester was an American scholar, photojournalist, and author known for his influential contributions to the fields of visual communication and photojournalism ethics.
Early Life and Education
Paul Martin Lester was born on March 21, 1953, in Flushing, Queens. He completed his undergraduate degree in journalism from the University of Texas at Austin. Lester then worked as a photojournalist for The Times-Picayune in New Orleans. He pursued further education, earning a Master's degree from the University of Minnesota and a Ph.D. in mass communications from Indiana University.
Career
Lester began his career as a photojournalist and later transitioned into academia, where he became a prominent figure in the study of visual communication and media ethics. He co-wrote the monthly column "Ethics Matters" for News Photographer magazine, the official publication of the National Press Photographers Association. From 2006 to 2011, he served as the editor of Visual Communication Quarterly. Subsequently, he was appointed editor of Journalism & Communication Monographs, a journal sponsored by the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC) and published by Sage Publications.[1][2]
Contributions to Visual Communication and Photojournalism
Lester's research interests included mass media ethics, new communications technologies, and visual communications. His seminal book, Visual Communication: Images with Messages, is a cornerstone in the field, exploring the interpretation and impact of visual media.[3] Lester’s dissertation on photojournalism ethics was among the first serious academic explorations on the topic, establishing foundational guidelines for ethical practices in photojournalism. The National Press Photographers Foundation established a memorial scholarship fund in Lester's memory, supporting the education of aspiring photojournalists.[4]
Public Speaking and Workshops
Lester was an accomplished speaker, delivering numerous presentations and workshops across the United States and internationally in countries such as Australia, Canada, Finland, the Netherlands, Northern Ireland, Spain, Sweden, and Turkey. His expertise in visual communication and media ethics made him a sought-after speaker at academic and professional forums.[5]
Personal life
Paul Martin Lester was known for his charismatic personality and ability to deeply connect with people.
Lester had a wide range of interests, including travel, technology, cooking, and music. He frequently combined his professional work with his passion for exploring different cultures. An early adopter of digital photography and online learning, he developed a synchronous course in Second Life.
Lester was married and had three children. His daughter, Dr. Allison Lester, followed his footsteps and became a scholar and teacher.[3]
Death
Paul Martin Lester passed away on November 12, 2023 from a long illness. His death was a significant loss to the fields of visual communication and photojournalism ethics. Lester was known for his contributions to media ethics, visual communication, and his role as an educator and mentor. In his final months, Lester chose not to pursue an organ transplant, reflecting his personal beliefs and values.[6]
His passing was marked by reflections from colleagues, students, and friends who highlighted his professional achievements and personal impact.[3] A memorial scholarship fund was established in his name by the National Press Photographers Foundation to support the education of aspiring photojournalists, ensuring his legacy continues to influence the field.[4]
