Using digital photography to record clients’ art work

Abstract

This article considers the use of digital technology to record work made by clients. It is argued that digital photography has practical benefits over traditional photographic methods and offers new clinical opportunities. It is also suggested that these benefits need not distract us from established art therapy practice or ‘traditional’ image making. The way of working with digital photography described in this paper seeks to locate it in the context of current legislation and professional thinking using examples and illustrations drawn from the authors practice with children and adolescents with mental health problems in the National Health Service (NHS).

Keywords:

• Digital
• photography
• practice
• ethics
• data protection

Acknowledgements

I would like to thank the Art Therapists working with the Children, Adolescents and Families Special Interest Group (ATCAF SIG) for the opportunity to explore my thoughts, and acknowledge their help in clarifying my ideas.