How to take pictures while on Brigade

Photography is a powerful reflection of our mission and values. At Global Medical Brigades, imagery should celebrate the strength, dignity, and collaboration of both the communities we serve and the volunteers who join them. All visuals should center people as empowered participants—not passive recipients—and reflect our commitment to equity, sustainability, and partnership.

What We Want to See

Capture genuine moments that honor the dignity of everyone in the frame. Photos should tell authentic stories of partnership and shared purpose.

1. Action-Oriented: Highlight collaboration in action. Show volunteers, staff and community members, working together, learning from each other, and building sustainable impact.

2. Warm, Natural Light and Vibrant, Authentic Settings: Prioritize natural lighting conditions that showcase real environments. Brigade sites (schools, local businesses, health centers) tell richer stories than controlled environments.

3. Real Interactions: Show genuine interactions between volunteers and community members. Capture moments of conversation, shared laughter, teaching, and learning.

4. Local Leadership: Feature local professionals, Community Health Workers, and community leaders in their roles. 

5. Emotional Connection Through Framing: Use close-up and mid-shot perspectives to highlight emotion, connection, and human relationships.

6. Diverse Representation: Include diverse representations of students, professionals, and community partners across age, gender, role, and background.

Here are some great examples

What to Avoid

1. Avoid posed or staged images that feel artificial or overly promotional.

2 Don't use imagery that frames communities as helpless or volunteers as saviors. We work in partnership.

3. Do not submit photos that compromise dignity, privacy, or informed consent. If someone appears uncomfortable or unaware they're being photographed, don't use the image.

Want to submit your photos? Here's How to Upload Brigade Photos on SmugMug