My ethics commitment in nature photography represents the heart behind my art. Whether it’s a rare bird sighting or a landscape stirring the senses, preserving and respecting our subjects always remains front and center. We all share the beauty of our earth, her flora, her fauna. Each element, just as humans, has a right. A right to live, to breath and to coexist as Mother Nature intends.
Ethics Commitment: Nature & Wildlife Photography
There’s not a single image worth harming wildlife, nature and her elements. On my blog Aperture and Light, I provide additional thoughts of our role and even responsibility as photographers: Wildlife Photography Ethics our Role As Photographers. Additionally, I wrote another article years ago on Light Stalking: Ethical Wildlife Photography is Authentic Photography
“Our lives shift and turn, just as the seasons of nature. May we embrace and nurture changes with grace and peace.“
Sheen Watkins
Throughout our many circles around the sun, Mother Nature remains and evolves. Our actions of today carry on long after we’ve moved on. I hope that my work, inspires or validates your love and care of her light and her life.
Photography & Editing
I photograph all images using RAW camera format. The concept of RAW is similar to that of a negative captured in film era. A RAW file digitally records exactly what the camera’s sensor saw using selected camera settings. Since it is the original recording, all of the information – the lights, shadows, darks and brights awaken in post processing.
Additionally, I use multiple art forms at the time of capture and in my post processing. Many of my produced images are reflective of what I observed in the field.
I also embrace exploring creativity while in the field and in post processing. Motion blurs, multiple exposures, long exposures, all share colors, ambience and mood.
Images that move into the realm of digital art include enhancements to further share a story, a perspective. I paint with digital brushes, create textures and layers, apply vignettes and other creative techniques.
“Every moment spent in nature brings joy to the spirit, attitude and heart. Enjoy your journey.”
Sheen
Nature and her evolution represents the best of us and the worst of us. If we count on others to do the work, to share the message, we short-change the our opportunity and responsibility as stewards of nature. Part of our beautiful journey consists of our work to protect her and the art to share her beauty.
Are you a photographer, artist or someone who enjoys seeing nature imagery? What is your ethics commitment in this craft?