Photovoice is a form of participatory action research, which has been gaining use and momentum since its inception in the mid-1990s. Within the enactment of this methodology, research participants are invited to document aspects of their lives through photography and then provide written or oral accounts of the images they create. Designed to situate participants as experts on their lives and their experiences, photovoice is a powerful and visceral approach to policy change efforts.

In this book, the photovoice methodology is conceptualized as being comprised of eight steps: identification, invitation, education, documentation, narration, ideation, presentation, and confirmation. Each of the steps is explained and expanded upon, and insights are drawn from the extant photovoice literature and the author's personal experience. In addition, attention is given to the history of photography and inquiry, theoretical underpinnings and aims of the methodology, ethical considerations, methods and procedures, approaches to data analysis, and photovoice exhibitions. Finally, the author has attended to some aspects of photovoice that have historically been left unattended, such as: building a conceptual framework for a photovoice study, viewing the photovoice exhibition as a site of inquiry, and thinking through the ways in which ever-evolving photography technologies can and should impact decision-making throughout the photovoice process.

While many texts exist that touch on and/or address photovoice, this is the first book solely dedicated to the entirety of the photovoice methodology - from theory to exhibition. Built as a practical guide, readers will find a wealth of information, resources, and advice within this book. Educators, students, and academic researchers will find this an accessible and compassionate text, one that will be a trusted companion while on the photovoice project journey.

About the Author

Amanda Latz is Associate Professor of Adult, Higher, and Community Education in the Department of Education at Ball State University, USA.

Reviews

As someone who teaches qualitative research courses and directs dissertations, I am often asked how to include a visual aspect into a research study, how to analyze photographs used in research, and which studies lend themselves to visual methodologies. This how-to, practical and insightful guide on Photovoice is much needed and will be savored by educational researchers, particularly for the potential the methodology holds for giving voice to marginalized populations in society. Photovoice centers the oppressed and showcases the power these voices have to affect change.

Bridget Turner Kelly, PhD, Associate Professor, Higher Education, Loyola University Chicago

Latz's Photovoice Research in Education and Beyond provides a rich how-to guide to photovoice which, importantly, offers orientations rather than destinations. This manifests in a wide array of theoretical, practical, and ethical building blocks that non-prescriptively invite new and seasoned researchers alike to (re)construct and enact photovoice as a methodology which might critically and creatively respond to the diversely situated communities of knowers with whom they work.

Marc Higgins, PhD, University of Alberta

In this book, Dr. Latz thoroughly and accessibly examines the evolution of and philosophical underpinnings of photovoice as a methodology. She raises issues and considerations, and encourages researchers to make their own decisions about how to address various challenges based on their own contexts and specific experiences. I look forward to adding this book to my collection on critical, innovative methodologies and recommend it for doctoral students and colleagues interested in engaging in critical, participatory action research.

Chris Linder, PhD, Assistant Professor, University of Georgia

Amanda O. Latz exemplifies the web of connections created through photovoice methodology. From outlining transdisciplinary theoretical contributions, to illuminating eight steps in the collaborative processes that are hallmarks of scholarly photovoice, to sharing personal vignettes about her work as a tertiary education researcher, Latz demonstrates expertise that others can benefit from immediately. Particularly beneficial is her inclusion of the exhibition facet of photovoice.

Katie Branch, PhD, Associate Professor, Human Development & Family Studies, University of Rhode Island

Dr. Latz skillfully outlines the historical and philosophical underpinnings of photovoice while at the same time provides practical information for researchers interested in conducting their own photovoice study. Importantly, this book fills a gap regarding how to analyze data generated from photovoice studies and disseminate knowledge gained. This book will be an invaluable resource for researchers, educators, and practitioners interested in utilizing photovoice in their own research projects.

Carrie A. Kortegast, PhD, Assistant Professor, Higher Education, Northern Illinois University

Latz presents a comprehensive overview of photovoice and skillfully guides the reader through examples for how and why scholars could benefit from this method. Any educator who wishes to refresh or expand the lenses they bring to their research and practice should reference this book.

Kristin McCann, PhD, Northwestern University

Book Information
ISBN 9781138851481
Author Amanda O. Latz
Format Paperback
Page Count 182
Imprint Routledge
Publisher Taylor & Francis Ltd
Weight(grams) 272g