Audubon’s Guide to Ethical Bird Photography
Respect for birds and their habitats must come before getting that perfect shot. Here's how to be a responsible bird photographer.
Conservation
Bird Photography Ethics
Pursue your passion without disturbing your subjects.
Sanderling. Photo: Jeremy Rehm/Audubon Photography Awards
The most important rule of bird photography?
Do no harm. Here you’ll find all of our latest guidelines and expert tips to help you ensure that capturing the perfect photograph doesn’t come at the expense of your subject.
Ethics and Owls
Why You Shouldn't Feed or Bait Owls
Some photographers use live mice or even cat toys to attract owls for an action shot. The photo isn't worth it—here's why.
Why Baiting Owls Is Not the Same as Feeding Backyard Birds
Some people question the difference between the two. There is a distinction—and the lives of birds depend on it.
Is Flash Photography Safe for Owls?
Their big, round eyes make them alluring subjects, but impairing an owl's vision, even briefly, might have negative consequences.
Follow These Expert Tips to Find and Photograph Owls
With the proper preparation and plenty of patience, you can dramatically increase your chances of success.
Nest Ethics
Dos and Don’ts of Nest Photography
You should always photograph birds responsibly. But you have to be extra responsible during nesting season.
How I Learned to Safely Photograph Beach-Nesting Birds
Nesting shorebirds like Piping Plovers and Least Terns are sensitive and skittish. Here’s how to take better photos while respecting their space.
Five Rules for Photographing Bald Eagle Nests
Everyone wants that shot of a Baldie with eaglets. Here’s how to get one without disturbing the birds.
How (and How Not) to Photograph a Golden Eagle
Goldens make for gorgeous subjects—if you follow these ethical guidelines.
How To Become a Better Bird Photographer: Advice From Audubon Photo Award Winners
While lucky timing never hurts, it takes practice and patience to create images like those featured in the annual Audubon Photography...
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Social Media Ethics
Tips for Being a Responsible Bird Photographer in the Social Media Age
Practices to protect sensitive birds and habitat should continue after photographers and birders click the shutter.
Follow These Dos and Don’ts to Show Off Your Bird Photos on Social Media
Half the joy in taking a bird photo is in the act of sharing it.
Rare-Bird Sightings: Share or Shut Up?
Before you post a photo on Facebook—or even take the shot in the first place—consider the bird's well-being.
Here's How to Spot a Faked Wildlife Photo—and When to Be Skeptical
The phony-image debunker behind a popular Twitter account shares tips for telling when the perfect shot is too good to be true.
More Ethics Stories
How to Choose a Photography Workshop that Respects and Protects Birds
These tips can help you get great pictures and keep the birds you love safe with a guide or group.
Why Photographers Should Reconsider Using Playback in the Field
Playing audio clips of songs and calls is a common tool for getting better shots, but it can also be detrimental to birds and their chicks.
Drones and Bird Photography: Why It's Just Not Worth It
You're not going to get the shot you want without putting birds at risk.
Why Closer Is Not Always Better When Photographing Birds
The impulse to shoot your subject at close range can be powerful, but there are several reasons why that's not best for the animal—or the image.
Too Close for Comfort
In the desire to get the perfect shot, some photographers push the limits, jeopardizing the wildlife they adore. Can’t we all just get along?
When It's Okay (or Not) to Feed Birds
Providing food—for photography or simple enjoyment—can be a thorny issue. For guidance, ask yourself these three questions.
Can’t Photographers and Birders Just Get Along?
The rivalry needs to stop—for the good of the birds.
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