Why Representation Matters - Picturing the Personal Impact of an NGO's Work

Personal stories told though photography, film, and first-person accounts can be a powerful tool to build support for a non-governmental organisation (NGO)’s mission. Drawing on the experience of the photographers and filmmakers documenting the work of the AIDS Alliance, this publication offers guidance on how to use photography and film responsibly, and to tell inspiring and real stories that reflect an NGO’s values and mission and that are respectful to the person featured.

For instance, the guide seeks to encourage NGOs and the media to avoid images that portray people as victims, as this kind of imagery can lead to:

• a homogeneous view of people and cultures
• a pity culture that dehumanises people and fuels stereotypes
• disengagement - “These people are different, it’s not relevant to me.”
• apathy through repetition – “How is my money helping? It’s clearly not working.”

Instead, the guide encourages organisations and the media to use photography and film in a way that challenges stereotypes and perceptions and makes a contribution to reducing stigma and discrimination. Stories should also involve the person whose story it is so that representation is collaborative and something that they have ownership of.

In order to illustrate the above points, the guide uses anecdotes from photographers and filmmakers who have documented the work of the AIDS Alliance, as well as examples of images and links to documentaries.