I was reminded of something yesterday while talking to my (visiting) daughter. A few years ago Debbie and I were in Philadelphia and we came remarkably close to what appeared to be an accident, complete with a police car and ambulance. As we got closer, we saw a sheet covering a body, and it turns out it was jumper from the top of an adjacent 29 story building. I had my E-P1 in hand but just couldn't shoot. Not just he poor soul on the ground, but the looks of horror and sadness on the bystanders and responders. I just felt wrong indulging in my "hobby" in the presence of such a tragedy.
Let me emphasize that I would certainly not condemn anyone who did take some shots. Such instants in the human human condition can be properly recorded and shared for the betterment of all. I just emotionally couldn't do it. I admit I struggle with doing street photography for similar reasons, yet I enjoy and see great value in the images of others. There is a definite disconnect between my rational understanding of the art and my sense of right/wrong/taboo, etc.
It's kind of a heavy topic and we have to be really careful to be accepting of a variety of attitudes, but any thoughts on this?
Let me emphasize that I would certainly not condemn anyone who did take some shots. Such instants in the human human condition can be properly recorded and shared for the betterment of all. I just emotionally couldn't do it. I admit I struggle with doing street photography for similar reasons, yet I enjoy and see great value in the images of others. There is a definite disconnect between my rational understanding of the art and my sense of right/wrong/taboo, etc.
It's kind of a heavy topic and we have to be really careful to be accepting of a variety of attitudes, but any thoughts on this?