Photographing the homeless

While many of the ethical and practical concerns people have raised are valid, I am not sure if the overall rejection of the studio idea is aesthetically justified. A lot of interesting art comes from changing the context of things (just look at how many exhibits in modern art museums might go completely unnoticed, or be dismissed as graffiti, in a different setting). Just because it might be difficult doesn't mean it has no merit.

 

One thing I would stress, along with several others, is the importance of being honest and respectful. This is always particularly true when dealing with people who are frequently subjected to poor treatment.

Matthew Kane wrote:

 

"I live downtown in a metropolitan city. Homelessness seems to be on the rise. I look out my apartment windows and see them everyday. I am compelled to do a project on them as they are largely forgotten and overlooked."

 

 

As you don't identify what city you are referring to, I would have to take issue with your statement that the homeless are "are largely forgotten and overlooked." I'm also perplexed by your statement: "Also I want to do some of them being cheerful if at all possible..."

 

As a start, you might wish to offer your services as a volunteer photographer to one of the organizations in your area that is devoted to assisting the homeless in terms of providing them with shelter, food, job training, etc. You might meet one or more individuals at a shelter who would be suitable as subjects for the development of a photo essay about their current homeless situation, how that situation relates to their family background, etc.

My approach to shoot homeless are different than what I see in this thread and Avedon.

 

When shoot homeless then shoot homeless and let they are homeless on the picts. Do not idealize and make them with white and nice teeth, just come out of dental office. Do not use white and bright background as Avedon for it do not belongs to them.

 

Instead shoot it there where they are the most confortible in their home (street). Shoot it while sleep in front of window with nice bed, in front of the bank,.... Do not make static picture for it is not good for BW film. Drama is neccessary.

 

Do not forget that you are photographer but not red cross. When finish your work if you piti them give a dollar and walk away. Never forget you are just a step away from them. Just nearly anyone is sooo close to be homeless any moment. If a bank hang around your neck you will be photographed. So no sory, just do it the best way you can and forget for pitiness.

 

That is my advise.

Go out in the morning and offer to buy them breakfast. chat over a nice full english and you'll

have them agreeing to every shot you can think of.

As a formerly homeless person myself I agree, Take time and chat with the person you would like to photograph, If a person is willing to share their story they are usually willing to share their likeness. The result is a comfort level that can result in strikingly honest portraiture<div></div>

http://morguefile.com/archive/?display=49719&&sid=53e12e5796ca2289988d0ceeeea57ccd Link to Homeless Mike