As a book lover, I have experienced one of the most magical moments when a book jumps off my shelf and comes to life. It’s as if the characters and the story have taken a life of their own, and I am transported into their world. But this magical experience is not limited to just books, it can also happen with visual research.
Visual research is an integral part of many fields, including social sciences. It involves using images, videos, and other forms of visual media to gather information and insights. It may seem simple at first, but in reality, visual research is easier said than done. It requires a combination of skills, techniques, and creativity to effectively use visual media as a research tool.
To delve deeper into the world of visual research, I had the pleasure of interviewing Gillian Rose, a Professor of Human Geography at the University of Oxford. She is an expert in visual research and has authored several books on the subject, including “Visual Methodologies” and “Doing Family Photography.”
In our conversation, Gillian emphasized the importance of visual research and how it can enhance our understanding of the world around us. She believes that “visual research is not just about looking at pretty pictures, but it is a way of thinking about the world.” This statement resonated with me as it highlights the significance of visual research in providing a unique perspective on various topics.
When asked about the challenges of visual research, Gillian mentioned that one of the biggest challenges is the assumption that anyone with a camera can do it. She stressed that using visual media as a research tool requires a certain level of skill and knowledge. It’s not just about taking a photo or recording a video; it’s about understanding the context, framing the shot, and analyzing the visual data.
Gillian also shared some valuable tips for those who are new to visual research. She emphasized the importance of being curious and open-minded, as well as having a critical eye. She also encouraged researchers to experiment with different techniques and not to be afraid to make mistakes. “The beauty of visual research is that you can always go back and re-do it,” she said.
One of the most interesting parts of our conversation was when we discussed the role of technology in visual research. With the advancements in technology, there are now more tools and platforms available for researchers to use. However, Gillian cautioned that technology should not be seen as a replacement for traditional research methods. It should be used as a complementary tool to enhance the research process.
As our conversation came to an end, I couldn’t help but feel inspired and motivated to explore the world of visual research further. Gillian’s passion for the subject was contagious, and her insights were invaluable. I realized that visual research is not just about collecting data; it’s about telling a story, and that’s what makes it so powerful.
In conclusion, visual research may seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach and mindset, it can open doors to a whole new world of understanding. As Gillian rightly said, “Visual research is about seeing the world differently.” So, the next time a book jumps off your shelf and comes to life, remember that visual research can do the same for you. It’s time to see the world through a different lens, quite literally.
The post Video Interview: Exploring Visual Research with Gillian Rose appeared first on Social Science Space.
