The aim of this section is to provide an understanding of the underlying principles of photography and instruction on the use of photographic and video camera equipment. It will also cover the various uses photo and video can have in support of the issues you are concerned with, as well as interview technique and evidence gathering.
The camera as a campaign and research tool
Photo and video can and do change the world, and are part of a truly international language, crossing national, cultural and linguistic boundaries. By attracting the interest of the media, public, civil society groups, politicians and policy makers, photographs and visual images can be used to generate local, national and international action.
- Photographs and video can provide irrefutable proof of a problem or crime, such as illegal logging or illegal fishing for example.
- They can help to show who is causing a problem and how, as well as what the impact is on people, wildlife and the environment.
- Video and photos allow irrefutable evidence from an isolated village to be shared with the world’s power centres instantly.
- Photos can be used to bring an issue to life, making it interesting and understandable to others including those who are not directly affected by the issue you are working on. A good photo can evoke strong interest and emotions that can work to gain support for your campaign among the different audiences you want to reach.
- Photographs and the interest they generate can be used to gain extra or new funding to help you continue to develop your campaign.
Read the training manuals below for a go-to guide to the techniques needed for creating and using film and photos to generate positive change.