Christian photojournalist Gary Fong, winner of numerous awards for his coverage in the San Francisco Bay Area, shared some of his prized photo-taking tips during a photojournalism workshop for Olivet College of Journalism students last week.

Fong drew from rich experience as a photographer to advise students on improving their craft. During the workshop, the veteran photographer reviewed select photos from his portfolio and discussed the composition and techniques applied in achieving each shot.

In recounting his experiences as a photographer, Fong said one of his secrets to capturing amazing photos was praying before shooting assignments. That personal communication with God, according to Fong, helped him bring back photos that astounded his colleagues, many of whom were perplexed at how he could consistently deliver amazing shots even when he only had minutes to meet the deadline.

He credits God for his award-winning photos, saying God would show him where to stand and where to look for that perfect shot.

“This is God’s photo,” said Fong as he showed students a photo from his portfolio. “God would show me things that other people didn’t see.”

Students attending Fong’s workshop said his presentation was inspiring and found his personal Christian testimony moving.

The workshop was offered as part of the “How to Make a Great Newspaper” module, designed to introduce journalism students and interns to key elements that contribute to the quality and integrity of any established newspaper.

Fong has over 20 years of experience at The San Francisco Chronicle, serving as the Director of Photography and later the Director of Editorial Graphics Technology. Fong is also the founder of Genesis Photo Agency, a group of professional photographers who work toward elevating the quality of photography in evangelical publications.  He has been recognized as the Photographer of the Year twice by the California Press Photographers Association and five times by the San Francisco Bay Area Press Photographers Association.