James Nachtwey is, without a doubt, one of the most impressive people in the world. Not that he would ever accept that though.

The photographer has captured some of the most incredible images of war in our time. He was in South Africa in the early 90s, Rwanda, Kosovo, Israel, Chechnya, and New York on 9-11. He received the TED prize and has a focused effort in looking after people who are affected and infected by severe TB. However, he remains incredibly humble.

All he wants is to witness. “I have been a witness, and these pictures are my testimony. The events I have recorded should not be forgotten and must not be repeated.”

He showed his humility again, recently as he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Society of Magazine Editors.

If you are in the media, watch it and be inspired. If you are curious about what drives most journalists, photographers and editors, watch it to gain a glimmer of insight.
Read or watch his acceptance speech here.

If you have an hour and a half, and want to see more of his life’s work. This is some of the 2001 documentary, the War Photographer.