Photography Ethics and Research

There are a number of resources available about the use of photography and filming in research and these are directly adaptable by people wishing to explore any type of filming or use of visual media in their teaching and learning praxis. I recommend the InVisio site 'Inspire' which focuses specifically on visual research methods - you can find it here. The website provides resources for visual researchers but there is much of use also for teachers and students.

For most student research projects I advise common sense and avoid filming anything that might raise any ethical issues. Follow normal university protocol about ethics and don't film or photograph identifiable people (with the exception of ourselves and friends and family's doing things we don't mind sharing) or any sensitive situations. Common sense has to apply here so if you have any worries do ask your teachers and lecturers. Ask permission when filming in organizational contexts, even as a customer, if you are doing it for research purposes.

Professional guidelines are available, like for Journalism Photography, but they would not reach the level of ethical expectation expected at a university, and they have different priorities. Makes for interesting reading though. 

FYI NZ Police on photography and the law: https://www.police.govt.nz/faq/what-are-the-rules-around-taking-photos-or-filming-in-a-public-place