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Photography Guide
We recognize the desire to remember the many people and places you
will see during your trip. Here are some tips on how to stay present
while collecting memories to cherish when you return home.
SHARE THE LOAD
Nominate one person (or a few) to be
the group photographer so that fewer
people have their cameras out. After
the trip, you can have a get-together
to download pictures and have
a slideshow!
BE PRESENT
The main focus of your trip shouldn’t
be hiding behind the screen of your
phone or camera. Our goal is to be
deeply involved in the ministry in
which you’re serving. When you arrive
anywhere new, wait an hour or more
before bringing out your camera; this
will give you the chance to establish
a relationship with those you’re there
to serve.
TAKE CANDIDS
The best photos are the ones
captured in the moment, in the midst
of ministry. Don’t try to pose - it’ll end
up looking forced, and you’ll miss
the moment!
ASK PERMISSION
It’s important to be respectful of the
people with whom you’re interacting.
Make sure you ask permission before
taking photos of anyone, from bus/
vehicle windows, and if you’re taking
pictures of younger children, ask the
parents or a responsible adult first.
QUALITY VS. QUANTITY
Spending too much time taking
photos could cause you to miss
important moments. Instead, be
intentional so that the photos you
take are high quality!
BE RESPECTFUL
Take a step back and think through
the context before taking a photo.
You don’t want to capture something
that could be offensive or culturally
inappropriate. When in doubt, ask one
of your PPM staff members!
DON’T FORGET
Be sure to take photos at the end
of the week with your host pastor,
in front of your partner church,
and the friends you’ve made in the
community! Those are memories you’ll
cherish for years to come.
SHARE YOUR STORY
If you take pictures with your host
pastor, your partnership, or your
group at the location where you’re
serving, send them to
photos@ppm.org. They might make it
into the magazine!
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