Consent

Obtaining consent for the use of visual data (images, photographs, videos) is essential, as decisions concerning analysis, publication, and open data sharing must be planned from the outset of the project. Consent should not be understood as a merely formal or contractual act, but rather as a dynamic, informed, and voluntary process centered on the protection of participants and the prevention of emotional, reputational, or cultural harm. 

In the context of visual research, it is particularly important to implement forms of modular consent that allow for granular choices regarding each individual visual item and the different levels of openness and reuse. Moreover, consent procedures must be communicated in a clear and accessible manner, taking into account the possible involvement of third parties or community norms. Addressing these considerations at the design stage ensures greater ethical responsibility, transparency, and respect for participants’ decisions throughout the entire data lifecycle. 

Consent procedures should also explicitly address alternative forms of data representation, such as textual descriptions of visual materials, which may be used when images cannot be shared. Participants should be able to decide whether they consent to such representations, as these may still convey sensitive personal data.