Check out Scott Kesterson and David Leeson’s excellent work on a feature length film, “At War“, based on Scott’s documentary footage shot in Afghanistan over a one year embed. David Leeson is editing the film now and has completed a few trailers that can be viewed on the site. Scott is an interesting story, going from citizen journalist and blogger to documentary filmmaker. David has mentored and collaborated with Scott over the years and the result is a powerful visual documentary on the war in Afghanistan. As I have mentioned in the past, my feeling is that we are pursuing the wrong model in some cases. We should be thinking about the long term documentary project more when it comes to video. The most powerful images usually come from long term projects that allow us to explore topics in depth. This is no different when it comes to video.

At War is a documentary film shot and directed by Scott Kesterson, who spent a year embedded with US forces in Afghanistan. The film is produced and edited by David Leeson, Pulitzer Prize recipient and currently Executive Producer - Video and New Media for The Dallas Morning News. The film is subject-driven storytelling, allowing the truth of the moment to speak in the tradition of ethical still photojournalism. It explores the timeless nature of war and conflict, and ultimately challenges us to look at ourselves as beings filled with love and hate, fear and courage, passion and chaos.