Lesson 1: How do we start a Photovoice project?

In this lesson, we will address these questions:

• How does Photovoice define the word “community”?
• What are the steps to follow when preparing for a photovoice project?
• Other tips to provide for someone interested in starting a photovoice project?

Let’s start with Stephanie Lloyd, our educator, talking about photovoice project methods.

Following on from Stephanie’s presentation, we will talk about steps we can follow to initiate a photovoice project.

• Step 1 is to Connect and Consult with the Community.

In this step, the researchers meet with community members, understand the community’s issues, and identify the research focus.

• Step 2 is to Plan the Photovoice Project.

Here, the research team partners with the community to define the project timeline, select the equipment to be used, identify meeting locations, and estimate the project’s funding needs. 

The research team is responsible for securing funding for the project but may also tap the community to help.

• Step 3 is to Recruit Photovoice Participants and Target Audience Members. 

The participants are the community photographers, while the target audience members are policymakers: individuals with the power to make decisions and effect changes for the community. 

Depending on the community issue being addressed, these individuals could come from the town council, government agencies, schools, or other groups.

• Step 4 is to Begin the Photovoice Project. 

Part of this step is to introduce photovoice to the participants and train them before they start taking photos.

To ensure we have a successful project, here are some tips:

• First, the process should be participatory and collaborative from the very beginning. Community photographers should be involved from planning through implementation of the project.
• Second, participants and staff should be trained. 
  • Participants should be taught the basic techniques of documentary photography, how to use the equipment, and how to safely and ethically take pictures. 
  • Staff should be trained to handle situations such as photographers getting threatened, faced with arrest, or being distressed.
• Participants need support during the process, as they learn a new skill and improve their ability to express their opinions.
• The project should lead to meaningful action. It is vital that the participants see their photos used in a positive and significant way.

Let’s do a quick recap of key items:

• A successful photovoice project should be carefully planned in collaboration with the community and policymakers.
• Project participants and staff should be equipped to perform their roles well.
• The photovoice project should lead to meaningful action.

So now we have learnt about how to start a Photovoice project, let’s look at what do our community photographers need. Click on the next lesson.