Ibraheem Abu Mustafa

I cover news relating to the ongoing Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

My earliest memories of photography are pictures of the destruction of Palestinian houses in Gaza.

I studied media and photography at university in Gaza, and I took several courses given by foreign photographers and sponsored by Ber Zeit University.

My first assignment was an Israeli army incursion into Khan Younis refugee camps in 2004 during the second intifada (uprising). There was huge destruction in the area created by the Israeli tanks and I could take pictures of some wounded children bleeding. I learnt from this experience that when I take pictures of spot news, I have to do it quickly and with a kind of bravery.

The three-week Israeli offensive in Gaza in the winter of 2008-2009 left the biggest mark on me. I witnessed big explosions right in front of my eyes and it was very dangerous work. I learnt that safety measures are highly important for photographers.

One assignment that excited me was taking pictures of people smuggling goods through tunnels between Rafah and Egypt. It made me feel like I was living in another world.

My biggest lesson has been learning authenticity, accuracy and quick achievement.

I respect my manager because he keeps giving me lessons about how to strive towards perfect work. He teaches me how to be patient and work professionally.