For my advocacy project, I think I will create a detailed infographic but I will include actual images of the people being harmed from not being able to have the resources they need. I actually got inspired in part by the Photographer as Witness: A Portrait of Abuse article I read because it reminded me of a project I had to do in my photography class last year where I discussed photographer Mary Ellen Mark who would take pictures of runaways, prostitutes, and other people whose lives were much different from other people’s regular lives. She did this to document and show the world who these people were and what their lives are like. These images struck me different and much stronger than any facts or data ever could. Because of this, I want to make an infographic including the facts from my research, and suggesting what could be done, but I want to include actual images of the people who this issue is impacting.
I do think that Photographer as Witness: A Portrait of Abuse is a piece of advocacy and I do believe it is ethical. I understand why some people may argue it was unethical of her to take the photos when she could have stepped in, however, even if she did, I don’t believe she would have been able to do anything that would really help the situation and most likely would have been hurt as well. Documenting that night and that incident allowed for people to see the real images of domestic abuse. Sure, people have watched television shows, movies, or some other form of media where domestic abuse may have occurred, but these scenes are not real and therefore have less of an impact on the viewers. Seeing photographs of the actual violence, and the actual scene, is SO much more impactful. People will remember what they saw in these images and will be able to understand what real domestic violence looks like. I think it was ethical of the photographer because without something to show people, they will not have a deep understanding.
I love your idea for your advocacy project. You are so right in saying pictures are stronger than words. When it comes yo your audience, maybe look into those who have control over available resources and who they choose to help.
With the article and pictures, having real pictures is what makes it powerful. Without the truth, how could there be real change? I didn’t think about the impact as much, and now I have—great stance and explanation.
It’s great that you’re using photography as your medium for the advocacy project because I think it’ll really make it that much more interesting for people to look at and learn from.
And I agree with you on your stance regarding whether the photographer performed ethical advocacy or not, as it is an important topic not seen as reality or talked about in public.
I really like your idea for the advocacy project. It is really unique and you are obviously passionate about it. I agree with you that the Photographer as Witness: A Portrait of Abuse is a piece of advocacy. You also brought up a point I did not think about before. Yes, the photographer could have tried to help but she probably would not have been able to. By taking the photos, she is allowing people to have a deeper understanding of abuse.
I’m very excited to see what the infographic will look like, I think this is a great idea to keep people engaged! I’d like to see where you end up shooting some pictures. I agree that Photographer as Witness: A Portrait of Abuse is ethical, if she had intervened she may have escalated the situation.