The camera is an instrument that teaches people how to see without a camera - Dorothea Lange

Humanitarian Photography

What is it? Most simply, it is photography for IMPACT. Often described as a mix of PHOTOJOURNALISM, DOCUMENTARY, and EDITORIAL, humanitarian photography focuses on using storytelling and the power of images to raise AWARENESS and motivate social CHANGE.

Humanitarian photography is often concerned with helping bring the most vulnerable people and places to light. While this can be a powerful and even necessary component of advocacy, it can also easily be misused and lead to harmful consequences for the very causes we mean to help. This is why it is important for humanitarian photographers to have a strong set of ethics that guide their work. Below you will find mine.

These are the principals I strive to apply to my work. Although they (and I) are imperfect and ever -changing, these are values that guide my photography and storytelling practices.

Authenticity

I strive to tell genuine and accurate stories. It is my goal to ensure that the images I show are both honest and authenic to the person, place, or cause that they are meant to document.

Dignity

It is always my goal to tell stories and show images that reflect the dignity of their subjects, even in the most difficult situations. I believe that it is important to keep the inherent value of each subject in the forefront of any work I do. Many of the situations in which I shoot are dehumanizing. Because of this, I strive to always make the humanity of my subjects the focus of my work.

Ownership

It is important to remember that the stories we tell are not our own, but belong to those who choose to share them with us. Peoples' lived experiences deserve to be believed, honored, and protected. It is important that those who share their stories maintain ownership of the narrative and are comfortable with how they are portrayed.

Respect

I carry a deep respect for the courage and vunerability that often comes with allowing oneself to be photographed. I strive to always honor the culture, religion, boundaries, and any other parameters around a particular subject.

Individuality and Representation

The work of a good photograph is to show both the individuality of the person, as well as to allow the subject to represent a greater cause when needed. It is my goal to respect the uniqueness of each story, person, or place; to highlight what makes them an individual; but also to find subjects that can reflect a common goal or cause. I work to avoid narratives that serve only to feed into stereotypes.

Consent

I believe that consent is necessary and important when photographing individuals, particularly those in vulnerable circumstances. I work closely with organizations and other partners to ensure that subjects are informed and consent to participate in any projects. Participants should have the option to decline or revoke their decision without fear of retribution.

Ethical Storytelling Certified

Photographers Without Borders

To learn more about applying ethical storytelling values and practices to your program, check out the Services page!