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Able Quote by Eve Arnold

“What has changed is that when I photographed, most people that I photographed didn't have the right of refusal on their work. It would take a Marilyn Monroe at her height to be able to dictate that.” quote by Eve Arnold
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“What has changed is that when I photographed, most people that I photographed didn't have the right of refusal on their work. It would take a Marilyn Monroe at her height to be able to dictate that.”

Eve Arnold

About This Quote

Source Interview: Documentary series, 1972

Photographers often lack subjects’ consent, reflecting power imbalances in visual documentation.

In simple terms: Photographers sometimes shoot without permission.

Key Takeaway

Consider ethical consent in image making.

Themes

ethics power consent visual media photography

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • street photography
  • portraiture
  • journalistic reporting

Key Concepts

subject rights authorial responsibility social justice

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can photographers respect subjects while capturing truth?
  • What mechanisms ensure consent in public spaces?
A Different Perspective

Legal constraints vary across cultures and eras.

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