5 easy steps to create better photography when visiting an Indigenous community in Australia:

  1. Research and Seek Permission: Before visiting an indigenous community, do your research and seek permission from the community leaders. Respect their protocols and cultural sensitivities, and ask for guidance on what is and isn’t appropriate to photograph.
  2. Build Relationships: Building relationships with the community is key to capturing authentic and meaningful images. Take the time to get to know your subjects, learn about their lives and experiences, and establish trust and rapport.
  3. Be Sensitive: Indigenous cultures can be sensitive to having their image captured. Be mindful of this and approach your subjects with sensitivity and respect. Ask for their consent before taking any photographs.
  4. Capture Authenticity: Authenticity is important in capturing indigenous communities. Avoid staged or contrived photos and aim to capture the community in their natural environment, doing what they do every day. Capture the unique beauty, diversity, and richness of the community in an honest and respectful way.
  5. Educate and Raise Awareness: Your photos should tell a story and convey a message to your audience. Use your photos to educate and raise awareness about the community and their culture. Be respectful and mindful of the sensitivities of the community, and aim to share their story in a way that honors and celebrates their culture.