Exercise - The Ethics of Aesthetics

The Ethics of Aesthetics

http://www.weareoca.com/photography/the-ethics-of-aesthetics/



On looking at the work of Alejandro Chaskielberg, I find the images instantly take my interest.  I don't have that immediate shock or sorrow but they have taken my attention.  I am looking, enjoying the pictures but not instantly knowing what the effect is ... these pictures - although I wouldn't have known without reading, have been taken in the moonlight, and where the light has not been good enough, in fill lights have been added.

I like the effect it gives, and you can tell that the subjects are in on this set up, a more posed photo. The colours are bold and the effect slightly artificial.  The subjects seem confident in their attire.
I feel these pictures are telling me about the people and the place they live rather than me feeling pity for them and reaching for my purse.  So maybe we are not donating because we haven't felt this pity or shock.

But maybe this is the way forward, maybe we have bored a little with the shock tactics and this fresh approach captures new attention.

I do not feel sorry for these people but maybe have a sense of pride that they are proud of their achievements and of the small life improvements and we can donate to promote this further.  Helping them to improve further.

Oxfam and the photographer have worked with the communities who knew they were collaborating to achieve the picture, they welcomed the ideas and see this approach as a positive thing, not to be photographed as victims, and they are being represented in a positive way.

These new style photographs were then shown at an exhibition raising funds and awareness for the charity ..  It may be that these photos need more of an explanation with them as they don't have the impact of shock and sorrow

I like this new approach, its fresh and interesting.








Also ...

To Print or not to print

http://elpais.com/elpaismedia/ultimahora/media/200403/11/espana/20040311elpepunac_1_P_PDF.pdf