We have all heard the phrase “A picture paints a thousand words.” In my profession images and videos have helped me capture the true essence of a place or space throughout my career as a crime prevention and built environment practitioner. We rely on this medium for our work, the field studies we conduct and the various recommendations we make for our clients.
According to YouthRex Research and Evaluation Exchange, “Photovoice is an arts-based methodology, a tool that can be a powerful way for youth to represent their communities or express their points of view by photographing scenes that highlight themes.”
I’ve led Youth Photovoice projects in various communities. My focus remains place-based, and having local youth explore public space through their own eyes, and through the lens of a camera.
Think about it! We all have places and spaces where we truly enjoy spending our time, and those we don’t. When it comes to feeling safe, we often avoid those environments we are fearful of. Youth are no different, and they often see things we miss!
So, aren’t you curious to know what they see?
Photovoice projects involve meeting with a small group of youth in your community or neighbourhood and sharing a few hours with them. We discuss how they can impact their built environment by learning basic concepts of Crime Prevention through Environmental Design, Placemaking and understanding the linkages between our built and natural environments.
Youth are then asked to go out into their communities and take photographs of both the places and spaces they enjoy, as well as those they avoid. We then regroup, coming together to discuss their findings and potential recommendations. It’s a mini-field trip that presents new possibilities for improving your community and empowering your future leaders.
Let’s explore their world through their eyes and see what we can learn. For more information on how to arrange a Photovoice engagement in your community or neighbourhood please use my contact page.
“You don’t really get a clear picture until you get out of theory-land
and get into the streets for a closer look.”
~ Jane Jacobs