Published: September 25th, 2024

Photovoice is an innovative research method that integrates photography and narratives to empower participants in expressing their experiences and perspectives on specific social issues. It was first introduced by Caroline Wang and Mary Ann Burris in the 1990s as a participatory action research tool, often applied in public health, education, and social science research. Participants take photographs related to the study topic, and these visuals are then used as prompts for discussion, analysis, and presentation, providing a voice to marginalized or underrepresented groups.

Photovoice provides participants the ability to express their views and concerns through photography, which can often communicate ideas that words alone cannot. This gives a platform to communities whose voices might otherwise be overlooked. Unlike traditional research methods, Photovoice emphasizes collaboration. Participants are deeply involved in every stage, from data collection to analysis, fostering a sense of ownership and reducing the power imbalance between researchers and participants (Evans-Agnew & Rosemberg, 2016). Combining visuals and narratives allows for a more nuanced understanding of the participants’ experiences, offering richer qualitative data compared to methods like surveys or interviews (Catalani & Minkler, 2010).

Though traditionally utilized in social and health research, Photovoice has promising applications within library and information sciences (LIS), especially in areas like information literacy, user experience, and community outreach.

• Assessing Information Literacy: Given et al. (2011) used Photovoice in a longitudinal study to assess the transition of students from high school to university in terms of their information literacy skills. By allowing students to photograph and discuss their engagement with information technology, Photovoice offered a dynamic method to understand their experiences with learning and technology (Given et al., 2011).
• Engaging Library Users: Luo (2017) highlighted Photovoice’s potential in understanding library users’ needs and behaviors. Photovoice enables librarians to creatively explore users’ perceptions and tailor services to meet those needs through visual and narrative data (Luo, 2017).
• Promoting Social Justice through Libraries: Since libraries often serve as community hubs, Photovoice can be used as a tool for social change, capturing and discussing issues relevant to local populations and engaging them in the process of advocacy through community-based projects.

Here are two recommended books that will help researchers gain a deeper understanding of the Photovoice research method:

“Visual Methodologies: An Introduction to Researching with Visual Materials” by Gillian Rose
This book provides a comprehensive overview of visual research methods, including Photovoice. It delves into different techniques for analyzing visual data, discussing both theoretical and practical aspects of using visuals in research. It is a valuable resource for researchers looking to better understand how to use and interpret visual materials like photographs in their research.

“Visual Research Methods: An Introduction for Library and Information Studies” by Shailoo Bedi and Jenaya Webb

This book focuses on visual methods in LIS, providing a comprehensive primer for students, educators, researchers, and practitioners in the field. Visual research methods (VRM) comprise a collection of methods that incorporate visual elements such as maps, drawings, photographs, videos, as well as three-dimensional objects into the research process. In addition, VRM including photo-elicitation, photovoice, draw-and-write techniques, and cognitive mapping are being leveraged to great effect to explore information experiences to investigate some of the central questions in the field; expand theoretical discussions in LIS; and improve library services and spaces. 

Both books provide foundational knowledge and practical insights, making them excellent resources for researchers new to or familiar with Photovoice.