A importância da fotografia no trabalho de campo antropológico

Abstract

This article aims to understand the importance of photography as a tool in anthropological research. To this end, we will present two field experiences: the "farinhada" in Capitão de Campos, Piauí, and the Warao community, Venezuelan immigrants and refugees in Teresina (2022-2023). Using participant observation and documentary photography as methodological approaches, we observed the food systems of these communities. Photography and the experience report allowed for a rich interpretation capturing visual details and the entire "magic" expressed in food preparation in these communities. Additionally, the emotional value of photography was highlighted as a link to memory and cultural identity. Therefore, the research also addressed food culture during fieldwork, both during the "farinhada" (cassava preparation) and in the preparation of typical Warao dishes (Domplinas/Arepas), emphasizing their importance in Brazilian food and dietary traditions. From this exploratory study, it was concluded that there is a need for reflection on the role of photography in constructing anthropological knowledge, going beyond mere visual representation or illustration of ethnographic texts to provide a deeper and more sensitive understanding of interpreted cultural realities.