In defense of photojournalist Ara Güler

When did our internationally-known photographer, Ara Güler, ever issue political declarations or ideological manifestos? 

After he took photographs of President Recep Tayyip Erdo?an and his family, Güler has been accused of being a "turncoat," of "quickly changing sides."

Güler is a man who answers those who call him "a photography artist" with such words as, "Come on, I am not an artist. I am a photojournalist." 

When the president says, "Come and take my pictures," can any photographer answer, "No, sir, not really, I am totally against you?" Is that possible? 

Do we lack the comprehension of this dead simple truth? 

Güler loves to take portrait photographs. When the opportunity arises to photograph a politician, he would never turn it down.

He has a large book of photos of former Prime Minister Bülent Ecevit; it took him two years to persuade him. 

So what, he should not photograph the politician who has shaped the last 14 years of the country? 

This is the most natural response; what else can it be? 

Güler is not a man who would say, "I have taken all the photos of my life, enough to fill a life," and put his camera aside. When the opportunity arises to take pictures of the president of the country, he, of course, goes and shoots them. This determination can only be appreciated and respected.

Why do we insistently think Güler is trying to ingratiate himself with Erdo?an? 

When Erdo?an said, "Ara Güler should take my photographs," isn't he honoring Güler?
 
Why don't we look at the incident this way? Why can't we? 

Okay, we get it. You hate Erdo?an. Nice, but why do you sacrifice our mighty Güler for this hate of yours? 

Isn't this a shame?...