ABSTRACT
Interpretative phenomenological analysis and photographic methods are both surgent research paradigms in contemporary psychology. However, there remains relatively little critical reflective material on how participant-generated photography can contribute to interpretative phenomenological research. Using data from three studies that focus on multiple sclerosis, cystic fibrosis and depression, we consider advantages and drawbacks in combining these approaches. We demonstrate how including photographic data can enhance interpretative phenomenological research through providing immediacy, detail and contextualisation to accounts as well as encouraging researchers to respect idiographic elements of an individual’s experience. Photographs can increase researchers’ ability to make an empathetic connection with the participant, arguably allowing them to better “walk in their shoes”. We reflect on some challenges of using photographs in interpretative phenomenology from both participants’ and researchers’ perspectives. These include ethical and epistemological tensions and challenges around analysis, reflexivity and interpretation. We discuss the potential reification of photographs and interrogate the idea that participatory photography is an inherently inclusive and impactful method of data collection. We conclude with the recommendation that more qualitative psychology scholars consider incorporating visual methods in their research and work in partnership with their communities of interest from co-creation through to shared activism and dissemination.
