Photo safaris are assignments, where users photograph topics that are relevant for the project. This gives clear insights on how the user perceive specific subject(s).
1. Define a topic for the photo safari, it should be open enough to allow interpretation from the users, but specific enough for the photos to have a theme.
2. Prepare a guide for the users, have questions regarding different topics. (Take a photo of your workplace, take a photo of what makes you happy, etc.)
3. Collect the participants’ photos and compare them, if possible invite the users to tell stories about their photos.
4. Collect insights and identify common threads.
WHEN
When there is not enough knowledge of the user.
WHY
To understand how users view their context.
OUTPUT
Make sure the photo safari is a fun activity and that it adapts to the user’s lifestyle (using a digital camera for the elderly might be confusing for them).
Next
Collection of photos and insights that can be used for inspiration.
Reference
BROBERG, Ole; ANDERSEN, Vibeke; SEIM, Rikke. Participatory ergonomics in design processes: The role of boundary objects. Applied ergonomics, 2011, 42.3: 464-472./