Code of Ethics

I am a proud member of Nature First: The Alliance for Responsible Nature Photography and as such, behave in accordance with the following Code of Ethics:

Environment

  • I prioritize the well-being of nature over photography.
  • I inform myself about all rules and regulations relating to photography when visiting a natural area or public attraction.
  • I always follow Leave No Trace principles and strive to leave places better than you found them.
  • I aim for authenticity by photographing plants and animals in their natural habitat engaging in their normal behaviours.
  • I help to protect the environment by picking up trash I find when in the field.
  • I do not knowingly damage living trees or plants in order to take a photograph. I wait patiently rather than attempt to influence an animal’s behaviour or posture.
  • I protect nature by not broadcasting the location of a fragile area, plant or animal. I use discretion if sharing locations.
  • I avoid stopping to photograph if it is likely to start a chain reaction resulting in other visitors crowding the area. I find another time or place to continue photographing.

Social

  • I ask permission before photographing an identifiable person.
  • I treat all people with respect.
  • I am patient and courteous with non-photographers visiting a scene. I am creative and can adjust my expectations of the images I planned to make. I am open to new ideas as they present themselves to me.
  • I am aware of my position and how it may interfere with the ability of the photographers and non-photographers around me to enjoy a scene.
  • If someone wanders into my scene, I am courteous and will wait for them to move. I will consider adjusting my own position, or kindly asking them to move when they are ready.

Self

  • I adopt this Code of Ethics and strive to adhere to these important principles.
  • I am an ambassador of ethical conduct in the industry through my own behaviour and by sharing these principles with other photographers and the public.
  • I educate myself about the weather, terrain, culture and potential hazards before visiting a new area.
  • I am always forthcoming about my post-processing and refrain from representing my photographs as something they are not.