Why is this so confidential?

Greyscale Economics is a documentary project that combines interview, data collection and photography to tell the stories of individuals who participate in non -traditional/shadow economies.

Although many participants have no issue with publishing their likeness for public consumption, there are select groups who can’t enjoy that privilege or may not participate out of fear. These individuals may be awaiting legal documents like visas, maintain a traditional job or career, or have vital court hearings that prevent them from speaking publicly or being seen. It’s important to keep these groups in mind and how vital their stories are and I hope this focus on anonymity is understood.

-Rabbit

Privacy Protection, Data Uses & Legal

In order to protect the privacy of participants, no individual’s real name, address, or any other information pertaining to the individual will be kept on record. Individuals interested in participating are encouraged to use a nickname or pseudonym when reaching out about the project. Additionally there is no need to tell a producer that you have completed a survey.

Surveys:

Surveys are completely anonymous and only the answers provided are saved. Online survey’s are hosted via Alphabet’s Google Form application and require no name, location or email in order to fill out. The data that is collected through surveying will be published in an online database for viewers and publications. No other information is collected via online or in person surveying. If a participant provided specific information regarding a work place, name, or other identifying mark it will be redacted from the content.

Interviews:

Interviews will be conducted over a secure platform and will not be recorded. Interviews are for a more in-depth understanding of what a participant does and are a good way for participant and the projects producer learn more about one another. Only information that is stated to be “on the record” will be taken down. No names or any specific information will be recorded or necessary.

Shadowing:

Upon completing several interviews, participants can agree to a shadowing session. Prior to shadowing, Brass Rabbit LLC will send and have the participant review a one page contract. This document legally binds Brass Rabbit LLC to protect the anonymity of the participant and give Brass Rabbit LLC the right to distribute the image.

Below are several paragraphs from the contract. This is a simple document, that many photographers call a “model release form” with extra clauses to safeguard participants privacy.

“Brass Rabbit LLC is legally bound to remove all “identity markers” from the image, this includes, but may not be limited to; face, special jewelry, birthmarks, tattoos, background material including but not limited to photos, posters, name tags, school emblems, etc. These will be noted as Identity Markers henceforth. 

Once the images are uploaded, Brass Rabbit LLC verifies that the images will be edited immediately to remove all identity markers. Afterwards, the original images will be deleted off every device, leaving only completely anonymous edited images.

Signing this document is mandatory for all participants of the Greyscale Economics Project for the safety and protection of the subject and Brass Rabbit LLC. “

For questions or comments on the privacy guidelines please reach out via the button below.