Moa Karlberg lives and works in Stockholm where she works on long-term projects in Sweden and abroad. About this work she writes:
The project ‘Watching you watch me’ is discovering how a photographer can get as close as possible to others, without acting illegal. I have taken portraits of people through a mirror, when they are totally unaware of the camera inside. This way I get shots of people watching themselves. Since the pictures are taken in public spaces, I can publish them however I want to. At least in Sweden, where the laws are generous to journalists and artists. But in which forums and publications does the single individual feel insulted? ‘Watching you watch me’ is an effort to create debate on laws and ethics within the photographer’s role.
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I’ve tried a similar project for a University course, but without the mirror and with a limited distance. I wanted to snap people out of their reverie. 95% of the people never objected but were rather curious. I love projects like these.
Here is the Link to one of the images: http://bit.ly/s0ROzx
So sad that no one smiles to themself.