Comments on: NGOs Do Good — But Make Sure They Do Right By You, Too

By: John Morley

John Morley — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 04:43:10 +0000

What a timely and much needed article. Too bad it wasn't written 3-5 years ago, but it's still very useful.

I was quite vocal about this same point while working as a media practitioner in Cambodia between 2005 and 2010...but what happened is I ended up being 'banished' from the NGO community for rocking the boat.

The NGO world is quite insular, often orbiting the capital of their respective developing nations, and the folks that work in the NGO world often are very sensitive about any statement or suggestion that challenges the (apparent) sanctity of their missions.

I do agree with the article of course - especially since the function of an NGO is to help support a viable civil society, including normal private sector/freelance activities.

But if you are too vocal or outspoken about your position as a freelancer, if you don't tread very carefully and walk on eggshells basically when presenting your position, you risk being blacklisted or banished from working with them.

Just curious: is the author of this article still able to work with the NGO community under his name?

Thanks though, this article speaks a very much needed truth

JCM

By: Nancy Cole

Nancy Cole — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 21:52:07 +0000

I'd like to add to the list of things to consider when working with an NGO: "Does the work move you?". At PhotoPhilanthropy, we encourage photographers to connect with NGOs to document some of the incredible work going on around the world. Rather than approach an NGO with suspicion that they might take advantage of you (which seems to be the tone here), do your research as suggested, and accept roles that are meaningful to you.

Yes, some large NGOs could afford to pay more than other smaller orgs. And they are making a similar effort to raise funds and spend those funds in the most effective way possible. Of course photographic services are valuable, and just like a cash donor decides how much to donate because s/he believes in the work, so must a photographer come to a similar decision -- is this something they are doing to give back and help the NGO (or partially) or is this just a fee-for-service job. Both are fine, but starting there will help you figure out whether you are participating as a photophilathropist or a full-fee photographer.

By: sudarshan

sudarshan — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 06:54:38 +0000

During my recent summer break which happened to be the best holiday i could ever have, I joined a N.G.O named LEADERS FOR TOMORROW which is a college based organisation aimed at bringing a social change among the society and integrating the youth to the system to make the world a better place to live.
Our programs include cleanliness drive ,adopting a plant,visit for compassion and IYM ie Igninting young minds.
For me ,joining it, was a wonderfull experience as I learnt immense about the world which I never knew.
"Right to Food" became an integral part of my life after I heard Supreme Court comissoners seminar under the NGO`s program and felt sorrow for the vitim and passinate for their cause.

By: Rohn Engh

Rohn Engh — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 05:43:42 +0000

Many editorial stock photographers have learned to work the right deal with NGO’s. In many cases the subject matter is usually of social significance. Although the payment is low, photographers consider it just a down payment. The real money comes in subsequent sales of the photos to social organizations, boook publishers, film companies, TV networks, and eventually museums. The secret is to make a “limited rights” agreement beforehand.

By: Denver Fashion Photographer

Denver Fashion Photographer — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 18:26:47 +0000

Nice post. It's definately something to think about how much you want to get paid when working for a non profit, or an NGO. Sometimes I think it's best to think about how much good your shots might be doing. Or how much bad, if it's for a strong political agenda.