Outtakes from this semester and additional thoughts.
For a story topic this semester I chose how food prices are being affected in Montreal and how inflation is being addressed. This is an important topic that affects every single person in this city, but especially people who are already quite vulnerable and at-risk or who are already experiencing poverty. On top of that, it is a topic that affects me personally, and people I know. Rising costs are putting people closer and closer to the poverty line, affecting the quantity and quality of food people are eating, all while disproportionately affecting poorer people. This topic is important, and is likely going to remain a contentious topic for awhile. Inflation will continue to rise, grocery stores will continue to gouge (especially since consumers are expecting increase in prices as a result of carbon tax), and now is as important a time as ever to cover this topic.
Cubitt-Cooke explains some trouble Le Frigo Vert has had since the pandemic.
First of all, I found it very difficult for people to talk to. I reached out to well over a dozen organizations, most of whom did not reply, or who did not reply in time. This made finding people to interview much more difficult. I would have liked to speak to people more educated on the topic. This was a particularly large hurdle. Secondly, I wanted to take more photos at better quality inside grocery stores whilst avoiding confrontation, but these two things are at odds with eachother. I had to settle for quick photos that are not well thought out on my iPhone as opposed to a more professional camera as to avoid getting kicked out of stores. However, other than that, it went relatively smoothly.
Cubitt-Cooke explains what they like about Le Frigo Vert.
To begin, I first got lots of experience. Most my photography is quite spontaneous photos on the street or at protests. For this class I had to plan out my story, composition, and other factors before even leaving my home. This was new, and I found quite different, but got it to work. I also had to find a way to record audio over the phone, which resulted in my having to make a DIY studio out of my duvet and pillows and recording audio with a microphone. As well, just getting more practise in editing video, synching audio, etc.
Kaufman explains how he has had to “cut corners” to afford to live.
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