Many photojournalists find themselves in dangerous situations when working.

Looking after themselves is as much a priority as getting the pictures they need. After all, no assignment is worth being killed for.

But often photographers are working alongside friends and colleagues. What happens if they get injured?

It’s a question posed by Joseph Zablon of Tanzania.

He asks how best can a photographer defend himself - and what can a professional do in a situation in which you see another photographer being beaten up or hurt in another way?

The answer is supplied by South African freelance photographer Juda Ngwenya, formerly Chief Photographer for Reuters in South Africa.

Your question is both valid and complex.

As a photographer one needs to have a very calculating and analytical mind. It is important that you assess the situation, be on the look-out and clear enough (but make sure no one sees you).

Remember, as a photographer you need to document the scene as you are the only witness for the world and so your picture will tell the story.

Another important skill that you need to learn is to think and act on the spur of the moment but, at the same time, be cautious of everyone around you if you take pictures.

The truth of the matter is, much as it my sound very crude or inhuman, there is often nothing you can do except to quickly document the scene and run for cover and seek help.

Let me briefly summarize what happened to me in the 90’s while we were covering unrest in the South African townships.

A mob we were photographing was anti-media and one of my colleagues was shot right next to me while we were running for cover.

There was no time to waste, the only option at that moment was to drag him to my car. I managed to drive him just few kilometers from the scene and I took pictures of him while he was fighting for his life on the back seat of my car.

Unfortunately he was certified dead on arrival at the hospital.

Concern about a colleague is understandable, but what if the situation is volatile?

There is no need to feel guilty if the situation does not permit you to rescue the person.