Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2003/11/06
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]I am at a bit of a loss here Tina. Rob basically describes polite interaction with his subjects and you imply he is dishonest. The fellow says he washes his son in the puddle and Rob politely asks permission to photograph it happening. Can you please explain what is dishonest about this? Now to your own work where I have a few questions that I feel should be answered as you have implied that it is morally purer than Rob's. How is the family or families you photograph chosen? Do you look for photogenic subjects (the old Afghan girl syndrome)? Are they aware of the implications of your photography; in that, your photography generates funds for their welfare? Is cooperation rewarded in any way however small? Is noncooperation punished in any way however small (i.e. not getting the rewards)? Is the religion of the subjects or recipients significant in any way however small. These question may be taken as crass but you do work for a religious group and the questions should be answered within the context of this current debate. Now I am not attacking your work or the funds your work raises. That is all to be admired, greatly admired. I also admire all the work you have shown here. If it wasn't good I would not be wasting my time with this. However to imply that you, a white (anglo-saxon?) protestant, dressed in clothes from Tilly and Banana Republic, bedecked with cameras, operating in a culture mostly unfamiliar with such a phenomenon and representing otherwise unobtainable aid, do not have an effect on the surroundings is to beggar belief. John Collier - -- To unsubscribe, see http://mejac.palo-alto.ca.us/leica-users/unsub.html