What is social photography and how does it work?

Contents:

• The right to speak
• "Does this person want to be photographed?"
• The person who stands next to you at the bus stop and does not give himself away
• "By helping others, you help yourself"
• What kind of people are these?

The right to

In 2021, Nochlezhka implemented a large-scale participatory project called "City - Approach - Human." As part of this project, shelter clients had the unique opportunity to learn photography from professional photographers Pavel Volkov and Yuri Molodkovets. Participants not only mastered photography techniques but also learned to create visual stories reflecting their lives and surroundings. This experience helped boost self-confidence and improve self-expression skills in people experiencing difficult life situations. The project became an important step in integrating shelter clients into society and strengthening their social position.

Ksenia Solodova explains that the goal of the project was to explore the perception of urban spaces by people with experience of homelessness. To implement this idea, they turned to Canon, which provided photography and printing equipment. This approach is not new; since the 1970s, the Photovoice movement has been around, enabling vulnerable groups and residents of certain areas to express their thoughts through images. This is a combination of art therapy and civic engagement that helps draw the attention of the media and authorities to important social issues.

Initially, the project was presented in the format of publications, after which the St. Petersburg Manege offered to organize an exhibition.

At the exhibition, we were able to convey our ideas to a wider audience, as it was unusual – viewers were drawn to photographs taken by homeless people. Ksenia notes that the key moment of the project was that society began to perceive homeless people not simply as marginalized citizens, but as individuals with their own artistic vision, equal to that of other city residents. We sought to emphasize that everyone, regardless of their social status, has the right to self-expression and creativity.

During interviews with the workshop participants, mostly men aged 40–60, I noticed how important photography was to them. These men lived through the boom of Soviet photography circles and were active participants in this hobby. Memories of their past experiences had a significant impact on their rehabilitation, helping them reconnect with the past and find new sources of inspiration.

The "Nochlezhka" project was part of a group exhibition at the Wende Museum in the United States, dedicated to the work of representatives of vulnerable and marginalized groups. This exhibition aims to draw attention to social issues and support for vulnerable groups. Nochlezhka's participation highlights the importance of art as a means of expression and advocacy for the rights of people in difficult life situations.

Pavel is a professional photographer and teacher whose photo projects have received recognition in publications such as The Washington Post, The New York Times, and the BBC, as well as in a number of Russian media outlets. He has won and been a finalist in both international and Russian photography competitions, which attests to the high quality of his work and his creative approach to photography.

At the workshop, I noticed no difference between the homeless and non-homeless participants. This was what made this event so special. They were all ordinary people, reacting to my stories the same way everyone else would. After the lecture, we walked around St. Petersburg, and the workshop participants actively photographed passersby, streets, and attractive details of the city. This interaction created a unique atmosphere in which boundaries were erased and a common understanding arose.

Today, almost everyone has a camera on their phone. However, we often do not stop to pay attention to our surroundings or, even more so, to take a photo. When you have time to focus solely on photography, you begin to perceive the world differently. Even if people have visited these places before, they likely see them from a different perspective and begin to appreciate the diversity of visually simple objects. Photography is becoming not only a way to capture a moment, but also an opportunity to more deeply understand and appreciate the world around us.

Art promotes creation. Immersing oneself in a creative environment, a person awakens deep emotions and aspects of one's soul. This interaction between creativity and the inner world allows one to unlock potential and inspiration. Creativity becomes an important tool for self-expression and development, allowing people to find new meanings and ideas.

The master class has become a new format for interacting with homeless people for me. I've previously collaborated with Nochlezhka, shooting for various publications. I work on many social projects, not just on homelessness. It's important for someone to highlight the lives of these people. We often see only the pretty picture: walking through central Moscow, we come across holiday posters and positive images. However, reality has another side, which is also important to showcase. This is necessary for people to realize what kind of society and world they live in.

During the filming on the Night Bus, which took place in winter or late autumn, I focused on conveying an atmosphere of discomfort in order to emphasize the severity of the conditions in which people live. The photographs capture people who, despite the cold and darkness outside, go for food. This allows us to understand that for them, this is one of the few opportunities to get food.

Photography has become more than just a hobby for me, but an important tool for changing the world around me. Initially, I was attracted by simple curiosity, but soon I realized that photography can convey emotions, tell stories, and influence public consciousness. This art form has opened new horizons for me, allowing me to capture moments that matter.

"Does this person want to be photographed?"

Nochlezhka focuses not only on helping the homeless, but also on changing public perceptions of this category of people. Much of the organization's work is focused on overcoming stereotypes, including visual representations of those who find themselves on the streets. Nochlezhka strives to develop a culture of using photography as a tool to raise awareness and understanding of the problem of homelessness in society.

The media often features stereotypical images illustrating social problems. Typically, these are photographs of people in vulnerable situations, for example, lying on benches. However, photographers do not always consider whether the person wants to be captured in this state. The use of such images, including images of amputees, is manipulative and veers into the realm of cliché. Ksenia Solodova emphasizes the importance of respecting each person's personal history and the need to avoid exploitative images in the media.

At Nochlezhka, we emphasize collaboration with creators who strive to establish horizontal and respectful relationships with their subjects. This approach allows us to create deeper and more sincere stories that reflect real lives and experiences. Respect for each individual and their experience is the foundation for quality content that promotes understanding and support for those in difficult situations.

Photographer Svetlana Bulatova specializes in creating reports on warming points for the homeless Svetlana not only contributes to publications but also serves as a text author. Ksenia emphasizes the importance of allowing photographers to share their experiences. Svetlana is deeply immersed in her subject matter, continuing her long-standing collaboration with the Charity Hospital and other nonprofit organizations. She actively develops the connection between photography and philanthropy by lecturing and working with both publications and foundations. Svetlana is an important link in the formation of a culture of interaction between NGOs and photographers, acting as a translator of this unique culture.

Independent documentary photographer and member of the board of trustees of the international organization Women Photograph in Eastern Europe. Has publications in such well-known publications as National Geographic, Reuters, British Journal of Photography, Bloomberg and many others. She specializes in creating visual stories that reflect social and cultural aspects of life, making her work an important contribution to contemporary photography.

Documentary photography serves as a powerful tool for illuminating the issue of homelessness. It allows viewers to gain a deeper understanding of this social problem, which often remains under the radar. Ignoring the situation does not help improve it; on the contrary, open discussion and visualization help attract attention and evoke empathy. Through photography, we can convey the realities of homelessness to a wider audience, stimulating public awareness and inspiring action.

Sometimes people decline to participate in filming, and I always respect their decision. As a documentary photographer, I strive to spend as much time as possible with the subjects of my stories. While volunteering for the Night Bus, I faced limited time at the hot meal distribution point, as we were expected at the next location. To compensate, I tried to go on the buses whenever possible, which allowed me to meet my subjects again and continue the conversation. This approach helps me understand their stories more deeply and create a more complete documentary narrative.

Gaining volunteer experience was an important and valuable step for me, and I sought to convey this information in a way that readers understand the seriousness of the situation. As the author, I focused on aspects of the lives of homeless people, including the high mortality rate among this category, which continues to rise. I described the causes of this phenomenon and how homeless people try to survive the cold season, as well as their efforts to find access to drinking water. Furthermore, I felt it was necessary to highlight the Nochlezhka team, including both staff and volunteers, who do everything possible to support people in difficult life situations. Supporting charities like Nochlezhka is an important task for society. These organizations provide systemic assistance to those in dire need and play a key role in improving the lives of homeless people. Each Nochlezhka project aims to address specific issues faced by people without housing and has a real impact on their lives. I am sincerely grateful to Nochlezhka for the opportunity to be part of this important initiative.

The person who stands next to you at the bus stop and doesn't reveal themselves in any way

In the summer of 2022, the charitable organization Nochlezhka presented a social advertising campaign called "Different Paths Home." Outdoor screens located near Moscow's Third Ring Road featured photographs of Nochlezhka clients along with their statements about what the path home means to each person. The campaign drew attention to the important topic of homelessness and the need to support vulnerable groups.

Ksenia Solodova states that photography is not always used in social advertising, but when it is present, it is important to convey an image of a person who is not associated with homelessness. The goal is for the viewer to associate aesthetically pleasing and stylish images with the Nochlezhka organization, recognizing that homeless people can have a variety of appearances. This approach helps break down stereotypes and change society's perception of homeless people.

Many people believe they understand the essence of homelessness based on the images of unkempt and drunk people they see on the streets of their cities. However, this stereotype conceals a deeper reality. Most homeless people are not always visible in public spaces and may appear like ordinary citizens. In reality, homelessness affects a wide range of people, many of whom remain unnoticed for long periods of time. It's important to understand that each case of homelessness has its own story and unique circumstances. Eliminating preconceived notions about homelessness will help create a more compassionate and informed society.

The "Different Way Home" campaign featured photographs from various authors, including Katya Zykova, who is not only a talented photographer but also a volunteer for the Nochlezhka organization.

Sports photographer and founder of a running community, specializing in capturing unique moments in sport and inspiring participants to new achievements. My professional focus includes not only photography but also creating a platform for communication and support for running enthusiasts. I strive to develop a culture of sport through high-quality visual materials and active involvement in the running community.

The photograph chosen for the banner was shot in backlighting, which I really appreciate. A Nochlezhka bus arrives in the evening at Three Stations Square. On a summer evening, the sun is beginning to set, creating a classic golden glow. This shot offers an interesting contrast between the ordinary subject and the beautiful lighting. The photograph depicts an elderly man in a cap with a backpack, heading in an unknown direction. We don't know whether he's waiting for a train to go to his dacha or planning to spend the night at the station, and his backpack contains all his belongings. This versatility of the subject allows us to shorten the distance between him and us. There's a stereotypical image of homeless people as unkempt and intoxicated. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. A person standing next to you at the bus stop and showing no signs of poverty may find themselves in a difficult life situation.

At my first shoot for "Nochlezhka" I met a wonderful elderly man in a hat. He looked very intelligent and was neatly dressed. "Nochlezhka" has its own unique slang, in which the word "domestic" refers to people who are not homeless. These can be people in difficult financial situations who come to the Night Bus because they do not have enough money for food. This grandfather was just such a "homebody." He sang in the church choir, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, his activities were suspended, and he was unable to return to his normal life.

The homeless people's reactions to the photographer vary. In my practice, I use lenses that allow me to take photos from a distance of two to three meters, making the process less noticeable for the models. I always clarify which models are willing to pose and which prefer to remain out of the frame. I've had people approach me and ask me to delete photos: sometimes it was aggressive, and sometimes they were simply worried about their loved ones seeing them. When people lose control of their lives, they lose their sense of agency. Being able to express your unwillingness to be photographed is an important step toward restoring that sense of security and self-esteem.

Since 2014, I have actively supported charities through regular donations. In 2021, I began volunteering professionally, and my first project was an exhibition organized by the Nochlezhka Foundation featuring photographers from various fields. This introduction to the project led to me forming friendships with the staff and actively participating in their activities, including photographing events.

Showing civic engagement and humanity, as well as love for the people who work at Nochlezhka, are incredibly important. Fundraising can be challenging, especially when it comes to adults, who are often perceived as responsible for their situation. Unlike sweet children or pets, adults in difficult life situations require special attention and understanding. This project evokes deep emotions in me and inspires action. Supporting Nochlezhka not only helps raise funds, but also changes public opinion about the homeless, showing that every person deserves care and attention.

After February 2022, photography has become an important tool for supporting non-profit organizations (NPOs) and strengthening their internal meaning. It demonstrates that humanitarian ideas are still alive, and people are willing to sacrifice their time to help others. It also reflects civic engagement and grassroots activism, which become especially relevant in challenging times. Photography captures moments of solidarity and mutual aid, inspiring others to join in charitable work. This work has fundamentally changed my perception of the role of photography in supporting people. I realized that helping doesn't necessarily have to be spectacular and showy, like standing in front of tanks in a public square. The reality is that photographs of war don't lead to change. Photography is not a panacea or divine intervention, but a tool that helps people fulfill their goals. I don't view my work at a non-profit organization as artistic expression or art creation. My work is a routine that supports others in their efforts to help others. Every day, gradually and monotonously, I build my contribution, like small bricks. Whether or not the wave washes away, it's important to reclaim your agency and realize that every action matters.

"By helping others, you help yourself"

In 2023, the charity Nochlezhka, together with the production company Stereotactic, organized an exhibition called "The Power of the Insignificant." The exhibition included 27 black-and-white photographs capturing moments taken during the Night Bus service. These images reflect the unique stories and emotions of people who use the Night Bus service. The exhibition emphasizes the importance of paying attention to everyday details and life situations that often go unnoticed. "The Power of the Insignificant" is intended to draw public attention to issues of social justice and support for vulnerable groups.

Alexey Krupnik, a photographer and advertising director, began his career at Nochlezhka in Moscow as a volunteer. Gradually, he began taking a camera with him on trips to capture the moments that inspired him. Ksenia Solodova shares how she once saw Alexey's heartfelt story in his stories about how a year of volunteering at Nochlezhka became a source of strength for him during a difficult period in his life. He noted that when it seems you can't change a situation, it's the "power of the small" that keeps you from losing your mind. This expression reflects the idea that even small efforts made in a place where you can see a specific result can have a significant impact on life.

Inspired by the text I read, I began to search I looked through Alexey's photographs in the archives and discovered that they were truly talented works. We later met, and I learned that Alexey is a well-known Moscow director of commercials and music videos. He has collaborated with stars such as Zemfira, who is currently recognized as a foreign agent in Russia. I suggested to Alexey to organize an exhibition called "The Power of the Insignificant," emphasizing that by helping others, we also help ourselves.

An advertising director and photographer are key figures in the world of visual art. An advertising director is responsible for creating attractive and effective commercials that can attract the attention of the target audience and increase sales. His responsibilities include developing the concept, script, and visual style, as well as coordinating the work of the entire film crew.

The photographer, in turn, captures moments, creating visual images that can tell a story or convey emotions. It is important for the photographer to have not only technical skills but also a sense of style, which allows him to create unique and memorable images.

Both specialists play a vital role in the formation of visual content, which becomes the basis for successful marketing and brand promotion. Collaboration between an advertising director and a photographer can significantly improve the quality of advertising material and its effectiveness.

The exhibition included photographs emphasizing the importance of volunteerism. The main goal was to attract the attention of young people to the exhibition so that they could see that their efforts and participation in volunteer projects are truly significant and worthy of capturing.

The exhibition witnessed an interesting interaction of two different worlds: my advertising production team and the volunteers from Nochlezhka. This clash of cultures and approaches created a unique atmosphere conducive to the exchange of ideas and experiences. Events such as these highlight the importance of collaboration between creative professionals and those actively working for the benefit of society. Discussing joint projects can lead to new concepts and initiatives, which in turn enriches both parties.

After the events in Ukraine began, I was looking for ways to justify my stay in the country. It was important to find volunteer opportunities where I could be useful and still get satisfaction from the process. I had been following the activities of Nochlezhka for a long time, and it was a natural choice for me. I strove for active participation, preferring physical presence and real help, rather than limiting myself to remote assistance via a computer.

The first time was exciting: a feeling of uncertainty and anticipation filled me. It happened at the beginning of winter, when the first snow fell. We came around a bend, and I saw a long line of about a hundred people waiting for food. The driver explained that I would have to "stand on spoons," but I didn't know what that meant. It turned out that my job was to hand out cutlery to people. That day, instead of spoons, I was given forks - this was the only time. I received a large bag with forks of various colors: black, gold, and transparent.

The line was chaotic; people were angry and irritated from hunger. My job was to contain their emotions and maintain order. Next to me stood a homeless man who helped at Nochlezhka, and his presence added a little warmth to this difficult situation. I remember someone in line asking for a specific fork—gold or black—this touching expression of the human need for something more than just food left a deep imprint on my soul.

Trips always bring a sense of significance and the importance of the task at hand. At such moments, you become acutely aware that many volunteers act not only to help others, but also to resolve their own internal issues. The emotional support we provide helps not only those in need, but ourselves as well. At the beginning of my photographic journey, it was easier for me to find subjects. With each trip, this task became increasingly difficult, as the images and scenes repeated themselves. At the time, I was taking a documentary photography course with Sergey Maksimishin, where I reflected on the boundaries of this skillful discipline and the importance of a photographer's delicate approach to their subjects. Over time, I began to treat my subjects and their stories more carefully. My first experiences were captivating, and in the process, I didn't always notice how people reacted to the presence of the camera. Now I realize the importance of these moments for creating authentic and touching photographs.

Currently, I continue to explore the topic of homelessness through photography. I became interested in showing the places where homeless people spend the night. Finding people willing to let me into their world and allow me to capture their lives can be difficult. However, I was able to establish a trusting relationship with the homeless, who invited me into their world to demonstrate how they survive the winter nights. I spent time with them on the commuter train, and the result was a story called "Surviving the Night." This work provides a deeper understanding of the reality of homeless life and their daily trials.

What are these people like?

Ksenia Solodova notes that when people visit them, they often say: "You are so young, beautiful, and cheerful. How do you even work with the homeless?" This underscores the importance of changing not only the image of the homeless in the media, but also the perception of philanthropists and charitable organizations. In our country, NGOs often present themselves through stereotypical photographs, for example, "We are handing over a package of food to homeless Vasily," which is humiliating for both the beneficiaries and the organizations themselves. It is necessary to create a more humane and respectful approach to this issue, showing that every person deserves dignity and support.

A portrait photographer, a member of the Union of Photo Artists of Russia, actively participates in international and Russian exhibitions. Specializing in portrait photography, she creates unique images that reflect the individuality of each client. Her experience and creative approach allow her to successfully implement projects of varying complexity and style. Her work has been recognized at exhibitions, confirming her high level of skill and professionalism.

I admire the work of Nochlezhka: their openness, approach, humanity, and lack of arrogance. I decided to reciprocate and support the team by sharing Nochlezhka with my audience, who, like me, were previously unfamiliar with the topic. This will draw attention to the organization's important work and help those in need.

While photographing the Nochlezhka team, I noticed that several formerly homeless people had joined the organization. This is an impressive example of how people with difficult backgrounds can become part of a team comprised primarily of young and successful professionals in their twenties. Attracting such employees not only enriches the team, but also creates a unique atmosphere where everyone's experience and life stories are valued and taken into account.

The Nochlezhka team gives the impression of people with a great sense of humor. In their office, there is no atmosphere of seriousness, fear, or tension, which is especially important when discussing such a complex topic as homelessness. Here, communication is easy and modern, with appropriate jokes. The office is decorated with stickers and humorous quotes, creating a comfortable environment. This demonstrates that the staff is genuinely interested in the problems of the homeless and shows genuine human compassion. This approach helps break down stereotypes and draws attention to important social issues.

During photo shoots, homeless people are often withdrawn and reticent. They maintain a distance, and this forces you to maintain a certain boundary, and sometimes even be overly cautious in your words and questions. I noticed that I was afraid of saying something inappropriate or asking a question that could hurt them. This caution can be unnecessary, as it is important to establish trust and understanding.

My approach to photography is based on naturalness and sincerity. I strive to ensure that people do not pretend and show their true selves. Although I may suggest certain poses or compositional solutions, I do not force people to smile or display emotions that do not correspond to their inner state. My goal is to capture each person in their natural state, allowing them to open up and show their individuality. This approach allows us to create deep and expressive photographs that reflect the true feelings and character of the model.

Art reveals its power only when the basic needs described in Maslow's pyramid are satisfied. This means that before a person can truly appreciate and engage with art, they must first meet their basic needs, such as physiological needs, safety, social connections, and recognition. Only then can deep perception and creative expression occur, emphasizing the importance of harmony between the physical and spiritual states of a person.

One of the key problems of homelessness is its invisibility. Photographs of homeless people provide them with an opportunity to share their stories, which helps draw public attention to this serious social problem. Visualizing their lives and difficulties promotes awareness of the scale of homelessness and the need to find solutions to overcome it. Every story matters, and it is through personal narratives that we can change the perception of the homeless and stimulate public discussions aimed at helping and supporting them.

Often we meet people on the street whom we instinctively distance ourselves from, trying not to notice them. This happens out of fear that they might try to establish contact. However, when we begin to consciously pay attention to such people, viewing them as unique individuals, we reduce the distance and foster their humanization. This attention can have a healing effect. During filming, I observe that people strive to be noticed, expecting a kind, attentive gaze. In this process, the importance of interaction sometimes exceeds the end result.

Working with Nochlezhka is of great interest to me. Like many people, I used to be subject to stereotypes about the homeless. In my family, it was considered shameful to beg for money on the street: "Go to work. They are all drunks, drug addicts, marginalized people." However, I now understand that the causes of homelessness are varied and not always related to addiction. This understanding helps me see the problem from a different perspective and see people who find themselves in difficult situations. It's important to recognize that homelessness can be the result of various circumstances, such as job loss, illness, or family problems. Working with Nochlezhka allows me not only to help people in need but also to change my perception of this social problem. I've long wanted to share my opinion about homeless people. We encounter them on the streets every day and often don't know how to respond: should we help or not, and if so, how? Giving money is a risk, because they might spend it on alcohol, or they might spend it on something else. I learned that to truly help the homeless, you can print out Nochlezhka leaflets and distribute them. If possible, buying them hot soup or tea in the winter would be a wonderful gesture. Refusing money in favor of more targeted assistance helps overcome fears about homelessness and encourages open discussion of the topic.

I am a photographer and strive to reflect important social issues in my work. Specifically, I shoot for the organization "Nochlezhka," which helps homeless people. My goal is to draw attention to this issue and inspire others to support it. I hope that my photographs will help dispel fears and stereotypes associated with the topic of homelessness and encourage people to donate.

"Ancestral Syndrome": Natalia Shulgina's photo project, dedicated to liberation from collective trauma, explores the deep personal and social aspects of heritage. This project focuses on how past events and ancestors' experiences influence the modern generation. Through unique photographs, Natalia Shulgina creates a visual dialogue that encourages viewers to reflect on their roots and how they shape their personal and cultural identity. The Ancestral Syndrome photo project not only documents but also offers a path to healing by exploring ways to free ourselves from the negative influence of history.