The Photographed Other: Interplays of Agency in Tourist Photography in Cusco, Peru

This paper unpacks the interplays of agency that emerge as locals are photographed by tourists. It explores the larger forces that constrain photographic performances within dominant western mythologies of the exotic Other. In unpacking the seemingly fleeting moments of photographic encounters, it contends tourist photography does not merely perpetuate spaces of exclusion through dependency and disempowerment, but mobilises spaces of empowerment, independence and self-determination within local communities. In exploring such issues, the paper addresses: the complexities of agency and power within tourist photography, the opportunities for empowerment through self-directed performances, the potential of photographic encounters to mobilise fleeting moments of togetherness and social exchange, and the opportunities tourist photography affords in reigniting and reinforcing the cultural identity of local communities.

► Tourists’ photography of locals emerges through a complex web of agency and power. ► Interplays of agency are performed within confines of Western myths of exotic Other. ► Photography opens opportunity for playfulness and self-direction through ingenuity. ► Photography aids poverty alleviation, access to food, education and health care. ► Fleeting encounters facilitates intercultural exchange and togetherness.