Exploring the performance of tourist photography and the construction of social relations: a visual anthropological perspective

Abstract

This photo essay delves into the performative aspect of tourist photography and its role in constructing social relations. Drawing upon personal reflections and scholarly literature, the essay explores how tourist photographers actively frame their experiences and examines the social dynamics that emerge from these performances. The study considers tourist photography not merely as an act of documentation but as a form of cultural production, wherein tourists become active participants in shaping visual narratives and identities. Through a series of photographs captured across various regions of India, the essay examines the performative nature of tourist photography, highlighting how individuals engage with cameras to portray desired images and identities. It also explores the concept of the “family gaze” within the context of tourist photography, observing how families construct and portray intimate moments for the camera. Ultimately, the essay contends that tourist photography not only perpetuates cultural practices but also fosters unique forms of social connection among individuals sharing transient moments. However, it also raises concerns about the potential overshadowing of human connection by the omnipresence of the camera, prompting reflection on the broader implications of tourist photography in shaping perceptions of reality.