That would be a NO and Bigger NO.
Done a project on the elderly back in the 90's using a view camera. None of these images were "taking advantage" in any way as these images became cherished memories for their family members. None of these images can be shared for a very-very long list of reasons. To imply and accuse an artist-creative image maker of taking advantage of those most vulnerable is a very misplaced assertion and lack of understand of this subject and all involved with it.
~Enough of that.
Suggest this book by Imogen Cunningham, After Ninety:
https://www.nytimes.com/1973/05/06/a...e-empathy.html
Medium wide works good for environmental portraits (4x5, 120mm to 135mm, 5x7, 150mm to 180mm, 8x10, 200mm to 240mm). For head-shoulder use the typical longer than normal focal length.
Get to know the environment and how the lighting changes over the course of the day. Get to know the individuals personality, limitations and what they want to say in the images you're making for them. Ideally, the image will capture some aspect of who they are in their current moment of living. Lighting is a big deal as becomes part of the image made with the specific individual. NO flash, no added lighting if at all possible. Reflective or negative fill is ok.
Know those older have physical limitations, be patient with them, work with them helping them with their needs, be sensitive to their needs and their families wishes. This is where an assistant can be greatly helpful.
Try to have the camera placement and all related set up before arrival of the individual to be photographed. This can reduce the stress placed on your portrait sitter. Limit the number of image per portrait sitter to no more than six (ideally one or two) as each exposure of film made stress the portrait sitter. Keep in mind time in front of the camera can be a very stressful event. Do all possible to reduce this often un-appreciated stress on the portrait sitter.
Bernice
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