Why and How: Reflections of a photographer (original) (raw)

This paper comes from the focus of a practitioner within an arts-based discipline. It therefore consists of a reflexive exploration of the processes of creating and co-producing images which are both creative and which bear the moral responsibility of mediating how communities on the margins of society are perceived in the public gaze. As such, the personal history of the photographer remains a core element in the epistemology of practice. ‘Why and How’ are the two main initial enquiries I receive whenever I discuss my work. During my short yet very exciting career as a photographer I have interacted and collaborated with groups from communities that can, and have been, perceived of as marginalised. ‘Why and How’ are therefore important questions as they force me to reflect upon and question my personal intentions, integrity and objectives as an emerging international photographer. During the presentation I will be discussing my philosophy and the personal narrative which underpins my portfolio of work. This presentation will consist of a presentation of images from my work with Gypsies, Travellers and Roma whom I have had the privilege to photograph, exploring some of the challenges inherent in this form of engagement, mediated by both the camera and the viewer/photographer’s perceptions. Participants in these projects come from a range of cultures and social and economic spectrums. Dignity is evident and consciously presented throughout the portraits of the diverse communities regardless of the personal circumstances of the individuals These portraitures set out to capture the essence of their identity, namely an individual’s inherent dignity and pride. The subject’s gaze when faced with a camera blatantly expose the confident and strong personalities of participants as they are portrayed within settings in which they have control over their identities even if not always over their material circumstances. As well as presenting information within image frames, my objective as a photographer was to elicit questions about the subjects’ past and present way of life, their impact on today’s society and their future. Utilising photographic images, which are selected and discussed with the community participants, this process can become a tool for empowerment creating alternative images which challenge stereotypes and meta-narratives of marginalization and subjugation.