Dear all

Back in Oct 2007 my group Phos organized a World Press Photo exhibition in Malta. During the exhibition we prepared a small survey for the visitors with questions related to WPP and the role of media in the conflict zones. recently we summed them up in a small raport, i am posting it below, maybe somebody will find it interesting. Its nothing big, but we had got some interesting insight on how people see war related photography/media. Id appreciate comments and feedback. Mind its not a scientific/academic thing -just something for our use only but id share with you guys.

Hope you will find it useful…

malicia

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World Press Photo Survey Raport:

The members of public who visited World Press Photo Exhibition were invited to participate in a short survey. They were asked a number of questions related to the displayed works, role of the media and the ethical dimension of working in conflict zones. From all the submitted entries, Phos then chose a representative group of 15 surveys. Selection was based on the following criteria:

1. Survey was submitted during World Press Photo exhibition (September 13th – October 8th) either in a printed or electronic form. The latter were received by email.
2. All questions were answered
3. Given answers were corresponding to the question and represented individual opinion of the survey taker
4. All the surveys were taken anonymously, only 3 persons decided to sign the form

The survey was prepared to create the opportunity for the visitors of the exhibition to express their opinions and concerns about photography and the role of media.

After reading all the entries and answers to all questions, the following conclusions were drawn:

For Question 1 (“Do you believe that photographic record of wars, conflicts and the suffering can contribute in the solving of such problems in any way?”) 90% of responders believed that photographic record could contribute in the solving of  problems such as wars or social injustice. Participants pointed out that the photographic record of conflicts exists because of the general public’s right to have access to the information. Exhibitions such as World Press Photo could influence people’s opinions and make them aware and alerted. It was also stressed that those in power (i.e. politicians) should see the photographic record as they can act to make a real change. According to the survey takers, the public should expect their representatives to undertake appropriate measures to bring about this task: economic sanctions are justified against countries/regimes that violate human rights, and more control should be exercised where weapons are concerned.

For Question 2 (“Is it morally justified for the photographer to merely observe and take pictures in situations where human lives are endangered?”) 70% of participants agreed that photographers can take photos even in situations where lives are at risk. Mainly, it was pointed out, because it is the photographer’s job to inform society and their help on the scene would be minimal, while their photographs could help millions in the long run. Survey takers also drew attention to the fact that it is always up to the photographer’s conscience and code of ethics to decide how to act. Yet, precautions should be taken not to overexpose human suffering in the coverage. 30% of respondents disagreed and claimed that if a photographer is engaged in a situation where lives are at stake (including his own) he should act responsibly and help. They also expressed their opinion that war images that show human suffering were justified as long as they did not bring profit. In the end it was mentioned that the press coverage can encourage terrorists to continue killings as long as they gain recognition.

For Question 3 (“Do you find images exhibited at World Press Photo disturbing or too graphic to be easily accessible by the general public?”) 60% of participants regarded that the exhibited photos as suitable for general public, stating that the images were taken with respect to human dignity, and they represented real situations. It was stressed that the exhibited works had a powerful impact and brought topics of great importance to the attention of the viewers. 40% of responders found the images disturbing or too graphic to be easily accessible, especially for younger audiences. In the same time, survey takers claimed that they have been adjusted to seeing violence on
a daily basis. One person suggested that the images should be of obligatory viewing for politicians. Another person didn’t voice an opinion on the matter.

For Question 4 (“Is the media abusing of its position of following world events using the images and stories for the sole purpose of making a profit?”) half of the participants agreed to the statement and regarded the media be somehow abusive of its position. Although the media hasn’t been described as corrupt, it was pointed out that profit gain was its main concern. At the same time, the media was praised for its role as news-bringer; others believed that the profits were used to send journalists and photographers to various assignments. According to the survey takers, the media is also being abused. Organizations such as Al Qaeda use the media to their own advancement to spread their propaganda. The other half of respondents disagreed, claiming that media representatives have the right to earn profits for being a social conscience, working in extreme conditions, often risking their own personal safety. In a commercial world, even photographers and war correspondents are justified to earn a living. Only one person didn’t have opinion on this matter.

The survey was prepared as guidelines for further discussion on the related topics.