Consent

I believe educated consent is absolutely essential for NGO/nonprofit advertising and publications. When asking for consent to take a photograph, I also inform the individual how the images will be used. If there is a language barrier, a translator is required to communicate expectations and consent. If the organization I am partnering with does not have consent forms or a method to communicate educated consent,  I coach and assist in building a better and more dignifying system to protect those they serve and document.

Usage

Even if an image is taken with the intention of dignifying, the way it is used is critical. I come alongside an organization to find ways they can use images and stories well to have a hope-driven marketing framework versus a guilt-driven marketing framework. The dehumanization that nonprofits commit in the name of “helping” and in the name of Christ is both disgusting and disturbing. I will not tolerate images I take to be used intentionally or unintentionally to dehumanize or manipulate.

Posture

Photographing individuals with dignity is vital. It is important that I photograph personhood over the situation. There are tools I use in my approach to photographing a person with dignity. I am constantly looking to improve these methods through experience, counsel, and education.  When I am required to document the current life circumstance of a person, I will always prioritize their comfortability and personhood, and then their situation. This prevents that person from being dehumanized through the photo. 

When working for an organization, I expect that there is an already established trust with the person/people I am documenting. If not, I request and plan to spend quality time developing trust and relationships.