This Nanny Photography is Poignant and Thought-Provoking
Farida Helmy — June 16, 2014 — Lifestyle
References: ellenjacob & featureshoot
Taking us on a journey through New York City’s streets and parks, this poignant nanny photo series documents a scene that has become part of the urban landscape of the Upper West Side.
In the nanny photo series ‘Substitutes,' photographer Ellen Jacob portrays the women of color who take care of privileged Caucasian children living in West Side Manhattan neighborhoods. Through her series we take notice of how race and color affect the role of nannies, even though we tend not to notice it on a daily basis. By exploring the series visually, we are able to see what Jacob is trying to show when it comes to the relationship between race, nannies and employers.
The visual narrative shows the nannies as maternal figures and how they lovingly bond with the children entrusted to their care—which unfortunately earns them low wages.
In the nanny photo series ‘Substitutes,' photographer Ellen Jacob portrays the women of color who take care of privileged Caucasian children living in West Side Manhattan neighborhoods. Through her series we take notice of how race and color affect the role of nannies, even though we tend not to notice it on a daily basis. By exploring the series visually, we are able to see what Jacob is trying to show when it comes to the relationship between race, nannies and employers.
The visual narrative shows the nannies as maternal figures and how they lovingly bond with the children entrusted to their care—which unfortunately earns them low wages.
Trend Themes
1. Racial Disparity in Caregiving - There is a growing awareness of the racial disparity in the caregiving industry, presenting opportunities for disruptive innovation and the development of more equitable employment practices.
2. Representation in Photography - The 'Substitutes' photo series highlights the power of photography to bring attention to underrepresented voices and experiences, suggesting that there is potential for disruptive innovation in the realm of diverse and inclusive visual narratives.
3. Changing Perceptions of Caregivers - The photo series challenges societal perceptions of caregivers as 'invisible' or insignificant, opening up possibilities for disruptive innovation in the form of increased respect, fair compensation, and support for caregivers in various industries.
Industry Implications
1. Childcare Services - The 'Substitutes' photo series raises questions about the treatment and compensation of nannies, creating opportunities for disruptive innovation in the childcare industry to improve working conditions and promote fairness.
2. Photography and Visual Arts - The impactful nature of the 'Substitutes' photo series suggests a need for disruptive innovation in the photography and visual arts industries to encourage diverse representation and challenge traditional narratives.
3. Human Resources and Employment - The discussion surrounding race and employment in the 'Substitutes' photo series calls for disruptive innovation in the human resources and employment sectors to address systemic issues and promote equal opportunities.
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