504: Sara Bennett: Humanizing Prison Inmates Through Photography - Creating Change

The Beginner Photography Podcast

In this episode of the podcast, I chat with Sara Bennett, a former criminal defense lawyer turned social justice and advocacy photographer, who shares her inspiring journey of using photography to humanize incarcerated women. Sara dives deep into her approach, emphasizing the power of storytelling and ethical considerations, and provides invaluable insights on building trust with subjects.
THE BIG IDEAS

• Empower Through Stories: Capture authentic stories; let your subjects speak through your images for genuine emotional impact.
• Build Trust First: Establish a respectful relationship with your subjects. Trust leads to more genuine and relaxed photographs.
• Community Connections: Leverage word-of-mouth and community engagement to find your subjects. Organic connections create deeper insights.
• Protect Subject Integrity: Always protect the privacy and integrity of your subjects, ensuring they are comfortable with how their stories are shared.

PHOTOGRAPHY ACTION PLAN

1. Start Conversations Before Shooting: Approach potential subjects with respect, share your project goals, and spend time talking without your camera. Write letters or emails to establish initial contact, explaining your intentions and building trust.
2. Develop a Personal Photography Style: Engage deeply with your subject to uncover their story, taking time to understand their background. Experiment with capturing candid moments that reflect your subject's genuine emotions and experiences.
3. Optimize Composition for Storytelling: Frame your shots to include elements that speak to your subject’s environment and context. Use written statements or captions to complement your images and provide deeper insight.
4. Manage Ethical Considerations: Always explain how and where the photos will be used, obtaining consent for public display or media use. Avoid photographing situations or elements that could harm your subjects, ensuring their dignity and privacy.
5. Showcase Your Work Thoughtfully: Curate exhibitions or create portfolios that prioritize the ethical representation of your subjects. Engage with audiences through guest books or feedback sections to create dialogue and empathy around your images.

RESOURCES:
Visit Sara Bennett's Website - https://sarabennett.org/

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Thanks for listening & keep shooting!