Fieldwork Guides

The following fieldwork guides were produced by TAI with the intention of aiding anyone who would like some quick tips before going out to talk to people about what they do. If there is a topic you would like to see, let us know!

Mics, Cameras and Tripods: Oh Gear!

Traditional Arts Indiana shares tips and suggestions for folklorists conducting fieldwork. We discuss the gear used for video interviews, what mic to use when, and how to get the best image and audio quality.

Preparing for an Interview

Traditional Arts Indiana shares tips and suggestions for folklorists conducting fieldwork. We discuss the purpose of interviews and how to make people feel comfortable.

Structuring Interview Questions

Traditional Arts Indiana shares tips and suggestions for folklorists conducting fieldwork. We discuss categories of questions to ask traditional artists, from beginnings and community, to aesthetics, process, and creativity/traditionality.

Getting Interesting Answers

Traditional Arts Indiana shares tips and suggestions for folklorists conducting fieldwork. We discuss how to get complex answers instead of a yes/no response. Don't be afraid of silence, ask open questions, and build the relationship.

Composing, Exposing, and Shooting Photographs

Traditional Arts Indiana shares tips and suggestions for folklorists conducting fieldwork. We discuss composing photographs with the rule of thirds and positioning, and using lenses and external flashes.