[Sfbay-video] Fwd: tips on videotaping other people's struggles?

[sarolta jane]

>I'm looking for a list of tips for less-experience video activists 
>on how to be respectful, secure and anti-racist when videotaping 
>other people's struggles. DO you have anything, or could generate 
>something from your own experience?
>
>It is for New Orleans Solidarity WOrk.

james et al


here's some thoughts on doing video solidarity work + check out third world majority website about community digital storytelling

http://www.cultureisaweapon.org/cdsm/mainframe.php3

1. i would say keep in mind that YOU are the GUEST in someone else's home. A guest would also denote being invited. A camera already denotes a power dynamic - on top of this  the media has run some pretty racist shit in the aftermath of Katrina . 

2. have participants read this article from left turn mag. by Walidah Imarisha
about race and the left's response to Katrina

http://auto_sol.tao.ca/node/view/1711
 
 2.  If you are shooting and it's for solidarity work it is imperative to ask permission before you take off the lens cap and start shooting even if it's in a public space.  (This pertains to children as well ...)

This involves a real introduction of yourself who you are working with, and the work you are hoping to do., what the footage will potentially be used for, whose involved in the editing process & where it will be shown.  Take the time to answer questions before the camera is rolling.  

3. If someone decides mid-way through an interview that they don't want the footage used RESPECT THAT. Be willing & prepared to tape over it on the spot. 

Take notes on people's names - what name they want used -first last none at all how they would describe themself - grandmother ,teacher etc and give people options. 

 If there is the potential copies of a finished piece will be screened or available to watch ( say at common grounds or something ) let people know . 

4.  An audio only interview - camera pointed to the ground or lens cap on- can be just as effective.

5. a camera  (and access to one- even if temporary) is a priviledge  
don't downplay it 

check out this link on the digital divide on the third world majority website
http://www.cultureisaweapon.org/digitaldivide/mainframe.php3

6. I don't agree the cameraperson necessarily needs to stay out of frame or interview . It's solidarity work not national geographic.

let people tell stories in their own time, silence can be uncomfortable (esp. for a new shooter) but giving people space is necessary.

Doing a public interview with one individual  may lead to others asking to voice their concerns stories, grief etc on camera. If someone gets is rambling let them speak . If necessary, find a good moment - after they've completed a thought to say if you need to move on - don't cut people off and just walk away. 

Esp. with new shooters I would suggest working in pairs - one person focussing solely on the camera (video in frame and audio),  the other being aware of how things are going technically (lens cap is on, losing light )  - logistically (car is coming ) and with anyone who's being interviewed.

If it's possible let people shoot their own footage with some tech. guidance.
At the very least be attentive to ideas , input etc . 

cheers from the 51st state,
sarolta jane

sarolta at yorku.ca




"a. mark liiv" <mark at whisperedmedia.org> wrote: >Date: Thu, 16 Feb 2006 16:33:51 -0800 (GMT-08:00)
>From: "J. Tracy" 

>To: "a. mark liiv" 
>Subject: Need Help
>
>What's Up Mark
>
>I'm looking for a list of tips for less-experience video activists 
>on how to be respectful, secure and anti-racist when videotaping 
>other people's struggles. DO you have anything, or could generate 
>something from your own experience?
>
>It is for New Orleans Solidarity WOrk.
>
>jt
>
>____________________________
>Thought for the day:
>Ideologies that are shoved down one's throat return to the world as vomit.-JT

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