Photography Do’s and Don’ts
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Whether video or still, the camera
enables you to discover new things, meet people,
share what you’ve learned. But - it often causes
miscommunication, promotes stereotypes, confirms
prejudices, and exploits people. Taking pictures
is an intrusion of privacy, therefore realize that:
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Photography demands
sensitivity,
thought,
imagination, and
strength of character
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| Consider the following suggestions: |
- Ask the local people to show
you around. They will know the opportune/appropriate
pictures.
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- Put yourself in the shoes of
the one being photographed. Would you like someone
photographing you?
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- Ask your subject for permission.
This shows a genuine interest as well as courtesy.
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- Photos can be used as a diary.
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- Polaroid’s are a great
way to make friends with those you photograph.
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- Sharing your photos strengthens
friendship ties, opens doors to what others think,
allows people to speak for themselves.
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Often “exotic” pictures
get the biggest reaction, and you will be tempted
to depict another culture through these striking
images alone. Therefore, ask yourself how fair a
representation your photos are. For a well-rounded
story of any society, include -
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| People - |
Old, young, and in-between!
Rich, poor, and middle class!
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| Scenery - |
gives insight into the situation of a community
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| Everyday activities - |
distinct foods, clothing, utensils, houses, animals,
meals, and
routines. . .
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| Special events - |
such as festivals, ceremonies, parades, etc., may
be inappropriate to
photograph. Ask permission. And ask what are good
ideas and what are not.
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| Industry - |
What is the livelihood of the people? Keep in mind
the factory worker, the shoe
shiner, the musicians, the housekeepers . . . anyone
that generates economic
security.
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| Historical monuments - |
May not tell much about everyday contemporary life
in a region. Keep to a minimum.
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| Sequences - |
Often things happen over a period of time, like
the building of a house or
a ceremony. A series of pictures will better depict
the events.
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| The intangible - |
Photos capturing emotions create the best personal
memories. |
We would love to consider your stories
and pictures for publication in the Mission
Post magazine.
Send all editorial correspondence to:
Adventist Volunteer Center Publications
12501 Old Columbia Pike
Silver Spring MD 20904-6600
E-mail: AVCPublications@gc.adventist.org
Fax: 301-680-6635 |
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