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I
was worried as a teen when I found out Many photographers don’t like asking per- of snaps, of buildings or birds or whatever,
that my family would be moving to Jordan. mission to take someone’s picture because that over the course of our conversation, to see
All I knew about the Middle East was from ruins “the moment.” Consider, however, what how they react. They may steer the conversa-
the news. As it turned out, those images had you might be missing by not asking. Your tion to photography themselves.
little in common with what I saw, living and greeting might develop into a conversation. You might hire a local guide to show you
travelling throughout the region for four years. The person may introduce you to their friends around and translate if necessary. They can
It was the same with Ethiopia, a vast and or invite you into their home. You now have a help break the ice, but it’s best not to hide
diverse country full of beauty and contradic- genuine window into local lives and a deeper behind them. Consult your guide when
tions, where I lived at the age of five: for many understanding of the place which, in turn, you’re not sure what is expected of you in
esterners W the first image that comes to mind means your images will go beyond simply certain situations.
is one of starving children with bloated bellies. reinforcing the stereotypes in the news. Rather Sometimes people ask for money in
People are becoming more media literate, than acting as a substitute for real experience exchange for permission to photograph. A
even in remote parts of the world. They under- or as a barrier to hide behind, a camera can good guide can determine if someone is trying
stand that the images visitors bring home can enrich travel experiences. to take advantage of you, and they can explain
influence international politics and shape the When I approach someone, I try to sense the common practice and suggest a fair trade.
expectations of future visitors. They’re concerned how friendly they are before raising the issue. I’ve found that if I speak to someone for a little
about how camera-wielding foreigners represent I’ll start off by asking some questions about while before asking for a picture, they are far
them. Even if we’re just taking snapshots to the place or what they’re doing. My attitude less likely to request money in exchange.
show friends, it’s important to think about how and body language are key, especially when Research the local cultures before you
we approach the act of picture-taking. there’s a language barrier. I may take a couple travel: attitudes vary greatly. History and
46 : verge winter 2010
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