وكالة الأنباء الفرنسية تسحب صورة للرئيس الفرنسي (صور)

Quote: First of all, AFP has a rule not to transmit images that gratuitously ridicule people. The decision to publish each picture is based on its news or informational value. We never publish something purely for its shock value or to mock someone. Our photographers often catch public figures – at international conferences or waiting to give a speech, for instance – in unflattering but entirely human poses, such as with a finger in a nostril. Another important point : The image was shot by a “pool” photographer, which means that he was taking photos not just for AFP but for our competitors as well, including Associated Press (AP), Reuters and the European Photo Agency (EPA). Such arrangements are common when physical space or access is limited, as in this classroom. Being a “pool” shooter carries a special responsibility – a photographer must capture the entirety of an event, avoid unusual angles, and make sure the photos cannot be misconstrued. So the decision to retract this photo was in line with our editorial guidelines. It was also taken independent of any external pressure. The French presidency did not at any point ask us to take down the photo.