Using Photo-Elicitation to Make Marginalised Voices Heard and Seen in Human Resource Management Research

Photo-elicitation (PE) is a qualitative research method that utilises images to obtain a deeper understanding of the perspectives, and beliefs of the research participants. The PE approach can be particularly advantageous for marginalised voices (silenced or underrepresented groups with limited power) by exploring different world views, challenging commonly accepted information, and investigating the material work context. Additionally, it has the potential to impact power dynamics between the researcher and the participants, while promoting collaboration. Consequently, we contend that the use of PE can enhance the representation of marginalised perspectives in human resource management (HRM) and the effectiveness of sustainable transformations in the workplace. To support our assertion, we present our PE research endeavours from a participant-driven and researcher-driven PE approach. While there are other instances of PE in HRM studies, this observational study identifies and revises the practical translation of applied method and data analysis supporting researchers in their future PE applications.