Photovoice
Purpose
To enable individuals and communities to document and reflect on their lived experiences through photography, fostering dialogue, critical awareness and advocacy. In biodiversity contexts, Photovoice helps make issues visible and actionable – encouraging ecological relationships and emotional responses, will exposing structural inequalities.
Key Features
Participants:
- Group size: 10–35
- Can be adapted for individuals or smaller groups
- Suitable for new or existing communities; introductory sessions recommended
Estimated Timeframe:
- Minimum: 2 sessions
- Photo-taking period: ~2 weeks (flexible)
- Optional: training workshops and exhibitions
Budget Level:
- Low to Medium
- Costs may include equipment, printing, venue hire, refreshments, and facilitator time
Materials Needed:
- Cameras or smartphones
- Flipcharts, sticky notes, markers
- Institutionally approved ethical information and consent forms (if collecting data)
- Display materials (e.g. clip frames, foam boards, digital screens)
- Optional: journals, audio recorders, exhibition space
Skills Required:
- Facilitation and inclusive communication
- Project coordination and logistics
- Adaptability and ethical awareness
- Storytelling and caption development
- Strategic planning for dissemination and impact
Case Study
Method in Practice
Context of Use
Used in the PLANET4B UK case study as part of participatory filmmaking with a Learning Community exploring nature–society relations among Black, Asian and ethnic minority communities. A variant (photo interview) was used in the Swiss case study on organic farming and religion.
How It Worked
Participants responded to a shared question through photography. They reflected on their images, developed captions and shared stories in facilitated discussions. Selected photos were exhibited with accompanying narratives, sparking dialogue and advocacy.
Engagement & Participation
Participants had ownership over the process, with flexible timing and modes of engagement. Facilitators supported reflection and storytelling while ensuring ethical care. Peer support and journaling deepened the experience.
Outcomes & Insights:
- Elevated personal and community perspectives
- Fostered emotional connection to biodiversity
- Strengthened group cohesion and trust
- Enabled advocacy through visual storytelling
- Influenced public and policy audiences
Strengths & Considerations
Strengths:
- Accessible and adaptable
- Encourages creative and critical reflection
- Builds confidence and agency
- Supports inclusive dialogue and advocacy
- Can be used for exhibitions, campaigns and policy engagement
Considerations:
- Requires ethical sensitivity around consent and representation
- Emotional topics may arise; support must be available
- Preparation and facilitation time needed
- Impact depends on thoughtful dissemination and follow-up
- Not all participants may be confident with photography; training helps
