Visual documentation has been an integral part of “nonhuman” primate studies. From formulating ethograms (a list of behaviors exhibited by animals) to identifying emotions and communication patterns, photography and videography has helped researchers to create an inventory of behaviors. The first empirical documentation dates back to the 1960's when the first extensive study of chimpanzees started by Jane Goodal at Gombe Stream Research center, funded by the National Geographic Society. Field based studies utilized photos to identify individual primates, and still do. Eventually, the introduction of camera traps, drones and surveillance cameras have made it easier to study the wild, as well as, captive populations remotely. Experimental methods have further helped in investigating the evolution and adaptation of primates. For instance; studies have utilized photos to investigate paternity in macaques without thus removing the need to use invasive experiments. Similarly, Artificial Intelligence is emerging as a method to understand the role of locomotion and body movement sensing using videography to examine the evolutionary underpinnings in the mechanics of tool use among “nonhuman” primates. Unlike in other subdisciplines of Anthropology, Primatology has managed to skip the obstacle of theoretical analyses in the ambiguous meaning of visual images in research. However, communication of research through awareness programs demand a reanalysis of the photos and videos that propagate meaningful and sensitive imagery of the nonhuman world in order to promote “coexistence”, especially in areas of “conflict”.
In this paper, I will review the utilization of visual images and access in “scientific” research in different areas of primate behavior over the last 20 years.The abelist paradigm of fieldwork in wildlife research and the role of visual documentation. And the ethical concerns that entail such documentation in communication of research.
