This very interesting book, by Greg Marinovich and Joao Silva documents the story of 4 photographers who covered the township wars in South Africa in the lead up to the end of apartheid and the democratic elections. These photographers witnessed horrendous violence, death and suffering, yet continued to work in the face of such adversity.
It asks very good questions as to the ethics of taking photos.
How do we help, show compassion for, or connect with the people who are the subjects of the images? One quote particularly resonated with me, “…Perhaps our pictures made a difference by allowing people to see elements of other people’s struggle to survive that they would not have otherwise known about.”
I certainly enjoy taking pictures on my travels, particularly in poorer countries. Is it a way for me to connect to these people, and feel compassion? Or, do I feel guilty for what I have and helpless to change their situation?
One of the final lines from the book stated, “We had not personally suffered like some of the people we photographed, but neither were we responsible for their suffering – we had just witnessed it.”
I believe this is an important thought to keep in mind and to consider the motive behind taking the image. Keeping humanity at the forefront of our minds is the key.
It was most timely that I then came across this link on twitter!
HI Meredith love the rainbow that is with you as leave.
ReplyDeleteThinking of you
Joan