Aboriginal Community - Roebourne Outskirts

[Round Tuit]

One of many lessons I was taught when I lived on reserve in Canada was that only the owner of the story had the right to share it.

I am willing to bet that not many "street photographers" share that opinion.

[JBW]

I am willing to bet that not many "street photographers" share that opinion.

possibly not. And that's where the conflict arises. Seems to me it is a question of good manners.

[PilbaraGirl]

One of many lessons I was taught when I lived on reserve in Canada was that only the owner of the story had the right to share it.

Agreed, a valuable lesson. So much to learn - so little time!

[LePetomane]

We have areas in the United States like the ones in the original post. The one closest to us is called the Crow Indian Reservation. We drive through it on our way to visit our daughter in Montana. A sad state of affairs. It is a rural version of the inner city.

[Manfred M]

PilbaraGirl - you have brought up some comments that certainly resound with me. It also highlights the issues that photographers (and travellers in general) need to be aware of when visiting places that they are not completely familiar with. In addition, it is important that the photographers are respectful of local culture, cultural practices and people.

That can be more easily said than done. Unless things are clearly identifiable as being out of bounds, it is difficult for someone who is just passing through to get this type of information. I have definitely visited sites in Canada where site access and interpretation were handled by members of the local First Nations. This certainly made things easier for me regarding who to ask for permission to photograph places.

I am also aware of some places where there are disputes between different groups among and within First Nations have arisen regarding ownership and control of particular areas, so the advice and direction can be diametrically opposed, depending on who one happens to consult. These can range from being quite nuanced to significant differences of opinion. There are even disputes as to who legitimately speaks for the First Nations and which ones have legitimate claims on the places.

So while I understand your concerns and the answer may seem obvious from where you are standing, my experience suggests that things are not always straight forward as you suggest.