Tensions in ethnographic observation: overt or covert?

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to reflect on the tensions between being covert and overt during ethnographic observations. The example of an ethnographic study of the culture in a diagnostic imaging department will be used to provide examples. Design/methodology/approach This paper is a reflection on an ethnographic study, focussing on the participant observation. Findings This paper discusses the author’s reflections on the covert and overt nature of ethnographic observation. Originality/value The discussion is of value to all ethnographic researchers who experience this tension.