From Governors Island to Hargeisa: On‑the‑Spot Reporting Across the Globe

Oct. 12, 2026, 5:00 a.m. ET

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3 min read

New York – Melanie Stetson Freeman
On assignment on Governors Island recently, I photographed children constructing their own playground. I entered a scene of mismatched wooden towers and walkways, where kids wielded hammers, saws, and paintbrushes, building and exploring.

I wandered among the structures to grasp the layout and then climbed a tower for a bird’s‑eye view. Shooting from above lets me stay unnoticed and offers a fresh perspective. A young boy scurried up and paused when he saw me. “I thought this was just for kids under 19!” he exclaimed. “You’re right,” I replied. “I’m just working here.” He nodded and continued climbing.

Washington – Caitlin Babcock
The midterm elections for Congress are approaching. To keep track of the 535 legislators, I maintain a flash‑card deck on my phone. While interviewing lawmakers on Capitol Hill, I rely on my visual memory to spot each member quickly. Even when I’m waiting in line or on the Metro, I review the cards, updating them when I notice a haircut or a new beard. This preparation pays off: recognizing less‑known representatives often leads to deeper, more insightful conversations away from the press scrum.

Mexico City – Whitney Eulich
While reporting on the Pay What You Can initiative, which grants diners access to high‑end restaurants normally beyond their budget, I visited Mexico’s Michelin‑starred Masala y Maíz. There I encountered housekeepers and street vendors savoring ceviches and samosas that would typically cost a week’s wages. One customer, who had just lost his job, became emotional describing how the meal meant everything to him.

When I arrived, I kept my distance across the street, photographing the line that stretched down the block. This allowed me to compose my shots and absorb the scene without intruding. I spotted co‑founder and chef Saqib Keval on the sidewalk, crossed the bustling street, and introduced myself. He quickly brought the day’s first guest over for a conversation, and her story turned out to be the perfect lead—an insight I likely would have missed on my own.

Hargeisa, Somalia – Sophie Neiman
The basketball slipped from my hands as I chased Somalia’s female basketball players up the court. Their speed and skill left me trailing as they dribbled with ease and scored repeatedly. I traveled to interview them about sports in Somaliland—a self‑declared breakaway region in the Horn of Africa—and the particular obstacles faced by female athletes. On the sidelines, the players shared stories of strict family expectations and the pressure on young women to marry and manage households.

Taking part in a brief game with the team, despite my poor play, gave me insight into why such a space—where women can train and express themselves—is so crucial. Putting down my notebook and joining them, even for a moment, was deeply rewarding.

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