Taking pictures in response to uncertainty: coping through double remediation of in-game photography

Purpose This study conceptualizes in-game photography (IGP) as a remediated media practice and investigates its role as a coping strategy amid uncertainty in both virtual and real worlds. It particularly focuses on the dynamics between gaming and photography, introducing the notion of double remediation. Design/methodology/approach Through 20 in-depth interviews with Chinese in-game photographers, the study applies grounded theory to analyze IGP practices. The data were coded and categorized to uncover types of remediation and their psychological and communicative functions. Findings The study identifies six IGP practices under three remediation types: game-to-photography, photography-to-game and double remediation. Double remediation, marked by high immediacy and hypermediacy, allows players to manage uncertainty by blurring boundaries between media, space and identity. IGP serves as a tool to restore disrupted routines, preserve relationships and build resilience through meaningful documentation. Originality/value This research expands remediation theory by proposing and empirically grounding the concept of double remediation. It also bridges game studies with resilience communication, offering new insights into how media practices support emotional and social adaptation in uncertain times.