ABSTRACT
The aim of this chapter is two-fold: first, to make the case for visual research methods as means of investigation (as opposed to presentation, although in many ways they are synonymous); and second, to present some preliminary findings from a visual project, where the everyday actions of coaches are portrayed as examples of practice. In terms of structure, following this introduction we start by addressing the questions of ‘What are visual methods?’ and ‘Why might they be useful?’ This is followed by an examination of more respondent-centred as opposed to research-centred methods; specifically, those of photo-elicitation and photo-voice. We then discuss a principal issue within the field of visual research methods: that of the (quasi-)constructivist nature of the subsequent data. This is because the line between capturing something ‘real’ and constructing portrayals through such means as photography is quite elusive. Finally, to include an examination 264of the ethical implications of such work, an example is given of the method in practice from Sofia’s PhD project. Here, data (i.e., photographs of coaching) are framed by Sofia’s reflections on the dilemmas she faced in coming to terms with the images she produced.
