When shooting at a spot that is tagged Shoot with care, you’ll have specific guidance to think about in addition to your usual careful photography practices. You’ll be notified of the specific stewardship needed in order to best take care of this particular location. The actions of even just one photographer count – that includes each and every one of us! Here are the reminders you may see at a shoot with care spot along with a more detailed note from the spot author where necessary.
Stick to paths and respect barriers
Trail erosion can permanently change landscapes. Sticking to marked pathways and trails that helps to minimise impact on natural areas, limits trampling of vegetation or disturbance of habitats. Barriers are there to keep you safe as well as to protect soil erosion so stay behind them even if you see others stepping over. Try using your tripod and camera angles creatively instead – no image is worth injury or worse.
Avoid damage to plants
Take care not to damage flowers and nature. Tread carefully;don’t trample on or pick wild flowers and take care where you place your tripod. Don’t break branches or ‘clean’ the natural scene to get your shot. Instead, move around and find a better angle that works. Prevent damage to crops by walking around the edge of a field unless there is an existing path across it.
Respect wildlife in the area
Avoid fields where there are animals as your presence may cause them stress and endanger your own safety. Think about the wildlife whose habitat you might be sharing. Always keep a safe distance from wild animals and use a telephoto lens. Never feed the animals or try to lure them closer, rather observe and photograph their natural behaviours in their usual habitat. Avoid unnecessary noise which might spook wildlife or farm animals.
Follow rules and guidelines
Rules and regulations are usually clearly displayed. Make sure you are aware of the guidelines and follow them. Lead by example even if you see others not following the rules. Without being confrontational, if you feel you can question behaviours that you believe are harmful or disruptive, or gently remind someone of the rules then you will be making even more of a positive difference.
Respect people who live here
Make positive connections with local people; ask permission first and never treat them as a side-show. Be mindful that this may be home for someone and respect privacy. Don’t trespass on private land or property. Be particularly careful if photographing children and seek the parent’s agreement wherever possible.
Respect that this may be someone’s place of work
Don’t disturb traders going about their daily business or get in the way of transactions or activities. Give back rather than just take a shot – for example consider buying something from a market stall or shop for a fair price, offer to send a copy of the photo and make sure you follow up on your promise. A conversation, learning something about each other’s way of life or coming away knowing more than before you took the photograph, can be a valuable an interaction.
Respect that people may worship here
Enter places of worship dressed respectfully and in line with the faith practised there. Remove your shoes and cover your head, shoulders and knees if required. Come back later if you find there is a service in progress – respect worshippers right to pray peacefully and privately.
Consider alternative locations
Popular photo spots can become negatively impacted and overwhelmed by visiting crowds. Plan ahead using PhotoHound to discover nearby spots that are less frequented or more peaceful. If you do visit an iconic location, try to avoid peak times and be mindful of others at that location.
