How To Take Photos Of Africa Or Where Intent And Ideas Collide « The Spinning Head

So many questions were left answered that I could not help but feel that there was more to this story than just a bunch of Africans attacking a dead elephant as maggots would.

CLICK NOTE: This post at The Spinning Head is an interesting read on an important topic. Please read the entire piece (linked below), as my comment is focusing on only one aspect of it.
Lately I’m seeing a lot of critical talk on the role of photojournalists. Africa is a frequent topic, as is Haiti, as is the portrayal of minorities and/or women. These are complex issues that should be talked about. I do often wonder what is in Africa’s best interests when it comes to coverage of tough issues. I agree that positive photo essays out of Africa should get more attention and that the African people are often reduced to a suffering stereotype. But don’t forget that in the late 1990s, three million people died in Congo while the world looked away. It is important that the stories about horrible situations are told. Such stories bring needed attention to problems.
As for David Chancellor’s elephant series (above)? I love it. I don’t see it as demeaning to the people he photographed. In their shoes I would be right with them. The only thing I’m thinking after looking is what can I do today to make the world a better place?

Link: How To Take Photos Of Africa Or Where Intent And Ideas Collide « The Spinning Head