Ethics and my approach to visual storytelling
Ethics in visual storytelling vary among practitioners and organizations, but certain principles define my approach:
Consent: Consent remains complex for storytellers, with varied methods and content. I believe consent is ongoing, not a one-time grant. Though it can slow productivity, it empowers participants to decide throughout a project.
Sharing Decision Making: Decision making, akin to consent, varies widely among participants. My research at Malmo University explored participation and representation, shaping my highly participatory approach in production and post-production. My Masters thesis ‘Looking back to move forward, how would I embed greater participation throughout my donor-funded multimedia impact series?’ can be read here.
Authenticity: As a documentary storyteller, I'm committed to truthfully portraying real stories. Unlike purely fictitious stories, documentary demands accuracy and realism. I ensure narratives align with participants' experiences and use documentary techniques in post-production.
Approach to visual storytelling
My approach integrates people-centric collaboration with a focus on delivering compelling stories. Tailored and reflexive, it leverages diverse teams to craft meaningful content and effective communication strategies.