ينبغي استخدام الطاقة بحكمة

Sometimes, the person asking for your story might be in a position of power or authority. It's important that they use that power responsibly and do not take advantage of you. No one should pressure you into sharing your story by promising you things or threatening to take things away. You should feel safe and respected.

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1. You Should Never Feel Pressured

No one should push you to take a photo, share your story, or agree to anything you’re not comfortable with. If you feel pressured, that is a sign of abuse of power.

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Tip:
If you feel uncomfortable, say:

• “I don’t want to do this right now.”

• “Please stop pressuring me.”
  If they continue to pressure you, feel free to leave the situation or tell them:

• “I’m withdrawing my consent.”
  No one can force you into participating.

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2. No Promises or Threats

No one should promise you anything in exchange for a photo or threaten you with negative consequences if you don’t participate. This is an abuse of power.

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Tip:
If someone says:

• “If you don’t agree to this photo, we can’t help you.”

• “You’ll lose out on support if you don’t share this.”
  Respond with:

• “That’s not fair. I’m in control of my choices.”

• “I won’t be threatened into sharing my story.”
  Know that it’s okay to say “no” even if they try to make you feel guilty.

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3. You Should Have Equal Power in the Decision

The person asking for your story should respect your ability to make decisions. The relationship should feel collaborative, not one-sided.

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Tip:
If you don’t feel like you’re being given control over the process, say:

• “I need to understand my options before I decide.”

• “Can we discuss this again when I have more time to think?”
  You should never be rushed or coerced into a decision. Your power to say “yes” or “no” is absolute.

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4. You Have the Right to Take a Step Back

If at any point you feel uncomfortable or unsafe during the photography process, you can step away and choose to not proceed.

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Tip:
Say:

• “I need to take a break.”

• “I’m stopping this process right now.”
  You do not owe any explanation other than your own well-being and comfort.

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5. Feel Free to Ask for Time to Think

It’s okay to ask for more time to think about how you want to proceed, especially if the photographer is in a position of authority or pressure.

Tip:
If you feel rushed, say:

• “I need time to think before I agree to anything.”

• “I’ll let you know when I’m ready.”
  You can take as much time as you need to feel comfortable with your decision. It’s your right to decide when you’re ready.

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6. You Deserve to Be Respected No Matter What

Regardless of the power dynamics, you should always feel like a valued person, not just a subject. Your dignity should never be compromised for the sake of the photo.

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Tip:
If at any point you feel disrespected or treated like your story is being used for someone else’s gain, say:

• “I don’t feel respected in this situation.”

“Please treat me with the same respect you would expect.”
Don’t be afraid to walk away from a situation where you are being treated unfairly.