The Ethics of Humanitarian Photography and Informed Consent

Photography in humanitarian settings is a powerful tool. It viscerally humanizes the work being done in ways that help mobilize and sustain support, and shines a light on outstanding challenges that demand global attention. Yet, it also carries immense ethical responsibilities, particularly regarding informed consent and the dignity of those portrayed.

The Role of Photography in Humanitarian Work

Images from humanitarian crises are often used to raise funds, advocate for policy changes, and build awareness. The emotional impact of seeing a project beneficiary's photograph can move donors to act in ways that words alone cannot. However, this same power raises critical ethical questions: Are the subjects of these photos fully aware of how their images will be used? Are their rights and dignity being respected?

Informed Consent: A Legal and Ethical Imperative

Most NGOs rely on written consent forms from donors such as USAID to fulfill their legal requirements for capturing and using photographs. Typically written in English legalese, these forms explain that the images may be used for promotional, educational, or fundraising purposes. While this approach protects the organization from legal liability, it often falls short of ensuring genuine informed consent for the people depicted.

Many individuals in humanitarian settings face language barriers, limited literacy, or traumatic circumstances that may impair their ability to fully comprehend the implications of signing such forms. Furthermore, the inherent power dynamics between aid providers and recipients can lead to coercion—whether explicit or implicit—in the consent process.

Moving Beyond the Legal Framework

To address these challenges, humanitarian organizations must adopt ethical practices that prioritize the dignity and autonomy of the communities they serve. Here are some steps to consider:

1. Transparency in Purpose: Before capturing any image, photographers should explain why the photograph is being taken, how it will be used, and who will have access to it. This explanation should be in the subject's local language to ensure she understands. Make it clear that services will never be denied if someone does not consent, and observe body language to ensure the person truly feels comfortable. I typically won't even pull out my camera until I'm confident there's genuine comfort. I also let them know the most visible possible ways their image might be used, such as on the cover of an organizational website or annual report. Because, in reality, I usually have no idea how (or if) the photo will ultimately be used when I'm snapping pictures.

2. True Informed Consent: While written forms may still need to be filled out for donor purposes, obtaining genuine informed verbal consent is a prerequisite to ensuring ethical humanitarian photography. This step reflects a deeper respect for the individual’s autonomy and dignity. Extra care must be given when it comes to children, and parents or guardians must give that consent.

3. Ongoing Consent: Consent should not be a one-time event. If the intended use of an image changes, organizations must make efforts to re-engage with the individuals depicted to ensure continued consent.

4. Avoiding Exploitation: Photographers must strive to represent subjects with dignity. Images that sensationalize suffering or portray individuals as mere victims rob them of agency and can perpetuate harmful stereotypes.

5. Empowering Local Narratives: Wherever possible, empower community members to tell their own stories. Training local photographers or using participatory photography projects can shift the narrative control to those most affected by the crisis.

6. Show and Share the Photos: I typically show community members their photos during or after I've taken them (which is also a great way for getting better engagement in the photography process). Whenever possible, I work with local colleagues to provide these people with printed versions of the digital images I've captured later on.

7. Mindful Representation: When taking or using photos, it is essential to consider how images might be interpreted. For example, a person sitting in the frame of an HIV clinic might be presumed to be HIV positive, even though they might just be accompanying someone else. Careful thought should go into ensuring that images do not imply something unintended.

8. Alternative Approaches to Consent: Beyond written forms, NGOs should consider using video or audio consent methods, which can capture the nuances of an informed agreement more effectively.
   

Balancing Ethics and Impact

Organizations may argue that stringent ethical practices could limit their ability to raise funds or spread awareness. While this tension is real, the long-term trust and credibility built through ethical practices far outweigh the short-term gains of questionable consent processes.

By placing the dignity and rights of community members at the center of their media practices, NGOs can demonstrate a commitment to the very principles they advocate for: equity, respect, and justice.

Conclusion

Humanitarian photography must walk a fine line between advocacy and exploitation. Moving beyond legal consent forms to embrace a genuinely ethical approach is not just a matter of compliance but a reflection of the core values of humanitarianism. Informed consent, when done right, is not a bureaucratic hurdle but a profound act of respect for the people whose stories we seek to tell.