The smell of free pizza filled the lecture room while the slides cycled through images - a monk watching television, riot police amid nighttime chaos, a woman in a bright veil hurrying down an alleyway.
"Of the 60 pictures in this presentation, I was paid for two," Luc Forsyth, a Cambodian-based photojournalist, began his presentation for students Chattanooga State.
Originally from Canada, Forsyth now photographs social and humanitarian issues in Asia and Africa for major news outlets such as Al Jazeera and The New York Times. But although there's a gritty glamour to his photos, Forsyth told students his life isn't for the faint of heart.
"I see my family once a year, and that's on a good year," Forsyth said. This past Thanksgiving was his first family holiday since 2006. And at this point in his career, Forsyth says he only breaks even financially because the cost of living in Cambodia is so low. But photojournalism is the only thing Forsyth has ever been willing to commit to.
"Committing is the hardest part," Forsyth said," The rest is just logistics. It's just working as hard as you can at something."
No matter the creative field students are interested in, Forsyth recommends finding a mentor, remembering that equipment matters least and being patient.
"It's going to be a longterm game," he said.
Many students raised questions about Forsyth's access to subjects and stories, especially amid cultural and language barriers. For Forsyth, meaningful, personal interactions with his subjects break down barriers and create a give-and-take dynamic. Respect for elders is key component of culture where Forsyth works, which is something he said he also adheres to.
"It's unlikely that somebody's going to rob you after you've had tea with their grandmother," Forsyth said.
Although, like many industries, journalism is changing, Forsyth told students that just opens the field for newcomers willing to put in the work.
"Everything is getting more competitive, but there are also more opportunities than ever before," Forsyth said.
More information about Luc Forsyth and his work can be found at lucforsyth.com.
Contact Maura Friedman at mfriedman@timesfreepress.com