Venture, a non-profit organization focusing on refugee crises, extreme poverty, and systemic injustices, partnered with us to document the work they are doing in conflict zones. With their mission centered around helping displaced individuals, particularly in areas of high sexual exploitation and extreme poverty, they sought our expertise in photography to tell these stories with dignity and respect.
The Challenge
Our task was to capture images that not only showcased Venture's incredible work but also conveyed the resilience, dignity, and hope of the refugees they support. We needed to balance the harsh realities of their circumstances with moments of joy and triumph, all while ensuring our subjects retained their dignity.
Our Approach
Storytelling
We knew each image had to tell a powerful story about the refugees' experiences. From the struggles they have faced to any successes they have achieved despite their circumstances, we wanted our images and videos to resonate with viewers on an emotional level.
Capturing Joy
Amid hardship, it's essential to capture moments of joy. Photos that show smiles, laughter, and celebration are just as important as images that depict hardship. These moments show our audience that despite daily struggles, there is still beauty in life—and hope for brighter days ahead.
Highlighting Real Moments
We focused on capturing real moments throughout our travels—moments that may appear mundane at first glance, but when captured well, can be incredibly powerful. Rather than having someone pose for a photo or video, we let them act naturally so they could tell their own story without being forced into any particular narrative or direction. This approach gives our audience an honest window into the lives of these inspiring people who continue fighting against all odds every single day.
The Outcome
The goal of capturing videos and photos during our trip was twofold; yes, we wanted beautiful visuals for Venture's website, but more importantly, we wanted those visuals to tell compelling stories about the resilience of Burmese refugees living in Thailand—stories full of dignity and hope. And we achieved just that!
Conclusion
We are incredibly proud of what we accomplished during our time in Thailand. Each image we captured not only showcased Venture's impactful work but also highlighted the strength, resilience, and hope of the refugees they support. We look forward to continuing this work in other parts of the world soon. If you have a story that needs telling, reach out to us. Let's shine a light on the people and causes that matter most.