Look around
When you are conducting a fieldwork, it is important to understand, experientially, about the “position” of yourself as an observer. That is to become aware of the relationships between the researcher and the researched. If you are trying to start a series of observations by keeping a proper distance with the objects/events, trying to stay at the same spot for a while, or trying to visit the same spot repeatedly, you may need to understand the characteristics of your “position” and its surroundings.
First, look around carefully to recognize objects/events surrounding you.
Go out to the field and take 4 pictures:
Try to maintain the camera in the same height while taking a series of photos. Also, record time and location of the research site.
- First, identify the position (that is to be fixed) from which you take the first picture.
- Take a photo of your front, left-hand side, back, and right-hand side, respectively.
After taking four pictures, check the four directions again, as well as your footing, to confirm that your “position” is secure from any intervention. Imagine the actual flow of your field research, and think carefully about the possible changes at your “position” over time, or about obstructions and difficulties that you might encounter.