What are a Photographer’s Responsibilities?

As a landscape (nature, wildlife) photographer, I feel we have a duty to do no harm to the land and animals we are capturing. We are here to help others see the beauty of the nature around us, not trample on it. I believe there is a set of photographer’s responsibilities.

But how do we make sure we aren’t damaging nature?

First, we should follow outdoor rule number one, take only photos and leave only footprints. This means to pack out what you pack in, even food scraps. It may be “natural” but still takes years to decompose and can be harmful to animals that may come across it. Always stay on established trails. Do not use social trails. Social trails may seem enticing, it’s a short cut and how much harm can I really do? In places throughout the southwest you think, it’s just sand but there’s an entire ecosystem in that sand. One that takes hundreds of years to make. One that is extremely delicate. 

We don’t stay on trails so we all only get the same shots. We stay on the trail to protect the smallest of lifeforms.

When headed out to a new to you area, do your research. Find out about local rules and what you can do to keep the area healthy. Google and Social Media have made this so much easier. Start with a google search. Confused? Reach out to local photographers or others that know the area and the rules. We can always reach out to the local park governing body and ask questions to make sure you don’t accidentally break the rules.

Now this next one will probably ruffle some feathers… don’t do it for the ‘gram. Don’t get that photo off trail to show off on social media. Don’t post location data. For me, I’ll say the park but I won’t give the exact location or coordinates. I’ve usually spent time researching and trying to find something I haven’t seen plastered all over social media. Other can do the work too. I don’t omit it to make it hard on others.

I do it to protect the land. 

When posting your photos, educate your audience. I will often try to give some facts about the area (or animal). Sometimes that includes if it’s endangered or at risk. Be transparent. If you altered something significantly, tell them. I mostly do basic editing or cropping on my photos. I don’t usually remove items in post or replace skies but if I did? I’d let you know. 

Lastly, let’s get into some wildlife guidelines. These can get pretty controversial too but I definitely believe we need to protect the animals over getting the shot. Others may not agree but I would hope they consider the animals.

First, do not interact with wildlife. Study the animals you want to photograph and know their patterns and signs of stress. We should not be causing more stress to them.

Do not feed or bait wildlife. We need to keep them wild. Once they become used to humans and human food, they are endangered of being killed.

Choose legitimate sanctuaries and zoos if you photograph captive animals. Choose places that are there to help them, not display and make money off of them. Avoid game farms. 

And again, be transparent. If you photograph captive animals, let your audience know. If you are in the wild and use a 600mm zoom lens? Tell them you use a telephoto lens and aren’t as close to that bear as you may seem.

What it all comes down to is keeping you, the land, and the wildlife safe. To protect. To save for future generations. 

What other guidelines do you believe we should follow? Drop them in the comments. 

Do you have any upcoming adventures? Grab an adventure checklist to make sure you don’t forget anything when you head out on the road!