Visual Research Methods - Ch. 10 Performances, Confessions and Identities

Chapter 10 of Visual Research Methods is called Performances, Confessions and Identities. The author looks at the use of video diaries, sometimes called “vlogging”, as means of gaining data or information from studied participants. With current success of reality tv shows, many people are familiar with this concept. Often time in reality tv, we see the characters escape to a private room, sometimes called a “confessional”. There they feel comfortable to speak their minds without fear of judgment from other cast mates. We as the audience are given insight into those “realities”.

Chapter 10 discusses how people (participants of research) are sent home with cameras to document their identities at work, rest and play. In this particular study, the researcher is viewing performance narrative of identity using a queer lense. One participant (James), we are allowed into his bedroom through the video where we can study such symbolisms like choice of decorations, etc. The researcher can explore themes such as, “being in the closet” or participants not “outed” as gay yet. Although James lives with his father, he says his father never comes into his room, therefore he can feel free to decorate the room in which way he pleases. The researcher goes on to analyze the fact that James’ father never goes into his son’s room. She questions father’s reasoning as perhaps avoiding what he doesn’t want to come to terms with (the fact that his son is gay).

This method is great for acquiring participants through “snowballing” effect. This data gathering technique suits or highly technological world we live in today, and can be another successful way to incorporate visual research.