IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer (band score 8-9)
IELTS Essay # 1535 - Famous people are photographed by professional photographers
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IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Nowadays famous people are photographed by professional photographers everywhere they go. Some people say this is a good thing because the public are interested in their lives. Other people think that photographers are wrong to follow famous people.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer:
In today's world, famous individuals are constantly followed by professional photographers and journalists who capture their every move. While some people believe that this is a positive development, others argue that photographers violate their privacy by following them. In this essay, I will discuss both viewpoints and opine that photographers and journalists should respect the privacy of famous people.
On the one hand, proponents of photographing famous people argue that these individuals are public figures, and the public should know about their lives. Celebrities, often regarded as role models, influence the general public through their actions and opinions. As such, fans are naturally curious about their private lives and enjoy seeing glimpses into their world. For instance, magazines and social media platforms thrive on exclusive pictures and stories about celebrities, which cater to the demand for content related to their personal lives.
However, others believe that photographers who follow famous people cross a line by invading their privacy. While celebrities may be public figures, they are also individuals entitled to their own personal space and time. Constant surveillance by photographers can lead to undue stress, anxiety, and even dangerous situations. For example, some paparazzi have been known to engage in reckless behaviour, chasing celebrities in high-speed pursuits, putting both famous individuals and the public at risk.
In my opinion, while the public's interest in celebrities is undeniable, the right to privacy should take a much higher precedence. Photographers should exercise more ethical standards and respect the boundaries of personal space, allowing celebrities to live without constant scrutiny.
In conclusion, although the public's fascination with famous people is understandable, it is crucial to respect their privacy. Photographers should prioritize ethical behaviour and acknowledge that everyone, regardless of their fame, deserves to enjoy their personal lives without intrusion.
Idea Generation for this IELTS Essay:
Essay Question:
Nowadays, famous people are photographed by professional photographers everywhere they go. Some people say this is a good thing because the public are interested in their lives. Other people think that photographers are wrong to follow famous people.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Essay Type:
Discussion Essay.
The main question of this IELTS Essay:
Should photographers follow famous people, or is it an invasion of their privacy?
Arguments in Favour of Photographing Famous People:
Public interest in celebrities' lives:
Celebrities, being public figures, generate a great deal of interest from the general public. People often look up to them as role models and enjoy seeing aspects of their personal lives. For example, many fans follow celebrities on social media, eagerly awaiting updates on their private lives and appearances.
Celebrity status benefits the media industry:
The constant coverage of famous people by photographers contributes to the media's ability to generate content and revenue. Paparazzi photos fuel the entertainment industry and keep celebrities in the public eye. For instance, exclusive photographs of celebrities in everyday situations are often featured in magazines and tabloids, attracting readers and boosting sales.
Celebrity photos offer insight into their personalities:
Photographs of celebrities often reveal more about their character and lifestyle, which can make them more relatable to their fans. This can foster a stronger connection between the public and the celebrity. For example, candid shots of a celebrity engaging in charitable work can enhance their reputation and show their positive contributions to society.
Gives fans a sense of connection:
By sharing glimpses of famous people's daily lives, photographers allow fans to feel closer to their idols, creating a sense of intimacy that can strengthen fan loyalty. For example, when celebrities post behind-the-scenes photos of their personal lives, fans often appreciate the exclusive access to their world.
Benefits to the celebrities themselves:
Constant media attention can increase a celebrity’s popularity, leading to lucrative endorsement deals and business opportunities. The media coverage keeps them relevant in the public eye. For instance, paparazzi photos may lead to an increase in a celebrity's followers or views, benefiting their career and commercial value.
Arguments Against Photographing Famous People:
Violation of privacy:
While celebrities may be public figures, they are also entitled to privacy. Photographers invading their personal lives can lead to emotional distress and a loss of personal freedom. For example, celebrities may struggle with not being able to go about their daily routines without being photographed, limiting their quality of life.
Reckless behaviour by photographers:
Paparazzi are sometimes known to engage in dangerous practices, such as chasing celebrities at high speeds, putting both the celebrities and the public at risk. For instance, the tragic death of Princess Diana is often cited as a result of photographers engaging in reckless driving to capture exclusive shots.
Negative impact on mental health:
The constant media attention can take a toll on the mental health of celebrities, who may feel overwhelmed or stressed by the invasive nature of paparazzi photography. For example, some celebrities have spoken out about the anxiety and exhaustion caused by being relentlessly followed by photographers wherever they go.
Distortion of reality:
Photographs captured by paparazzi often present an incomplete or distorted image of a celebrity's life, leading to misinterpretations and false narratives. For example, candid photos can sometimes be misrepresented by the media, contributing to unfair judgments or negative portrayals of celebrities.
Limits freedom of movement:
The constant surveillance prevents celebrities from enjoying simple activities without fear of being photographed. This infringement on personal freedom can be frustrating and draining. For instance, many celebrities have complained about not being able to go to a grocery store or take a walk in peace due to the presence of photographers.
Discuss both these views and give your opinion.
Report