Random Photo Adventure - Code of Ethics

I believe in ethical photography and journalism, ensuring honesty, integrity, and respect for both nature and storytelling. This Code of Ethics guides my work, from capturing nature responsibly to reporting on stories and issues with facts, accuracy, and transparency.

Last Updated: February 5th, 2025.

1. Truthfulness, Accuracy, and Environmental Integrity in Photo Editing

I commit to always presenting my photography truthfully, ensuring that my edits reflect what I witnessed or experienced. I strive to represent nature and wildlife as I find them, without altering the environment in unnatural ways. I aim to enhance the subject, not manipulate the scene, and will disclose any significant changes made to the image, such as cloning or other alterations. I will disclose alterations only if they are substantial and affect the integrity of the scene. I will not utilize AI to create my images. AI will only ever be used to de-noise images.

2. Respect for Subjects

I respect the privacy and dignity of all subjects, both human and animal. I will not disclose sensitive locations or subjects' personal information, and I take care to ensure my presence does not cause undue stress to wildlife when in the field. I will take all necessary precautions to minimize any stress caused by my presence, following ethical guidelines for wildlife observation.

3. Accuracy in Journalism

I will ensure the information I present through my journalistic content is accurate and verified. I will correct any factual errors promptly and maintain transparency when discussing my process, sources, and the information presented. I will ensure my journalistic content is thoroughly researched, sourcing information from reputable, reliable, and ethical sources.

4. Conflicts of Interest

I will disclose any potential conflicts of interest that may affect my work, including personal, financial, or professional relationships that could influence the objectivity of my content.

5. Avoidance of Sensationalism

I will avoid sensationalism and exaggeration in my journalism work, striving to present facts and issues in a balanced, clear, and truthful manner, without distortion or unnecessary dramatization.

6. Environmental Impact

I adhere to all laws, guidelines, and best practices to minimize the environmental impact of my work. This includes respecting wildlife, natural habitats, and local regulations. I am committed to maintaining the comfort and safety of the subjects I photograph. I continually assess the effects of my presence on the environment and make adjustments as needed.

7. Transparency in Commercial Work

I will disclose any commercial partnerships, sponsorships, or projects created for profit. I believe in transparency regarding the financial nature of my work, ensuring that my audience understands when content is produced with commercial interests. This includes disclosing paid collaborations, product placements, or when content is sponsored by external brands.

8. Social Responsibility

I recognize the impact my work can have on individuals and communities, and I am committed to photographing responsibly. I understand how my content influences public perception and behavior and strive to create work that is mindful of its consequences. I will consider how my work affects public perceptions of wildlife, conservation, and environmental issues, ensuring that my content is not harmful or exploitative.

9. Captive Wildlife Disclosure

I will always disclose when subjects are captive wildlife and will never bait wildlife to create content. I believe in portraying animals in their natural environment whenever possible and strive to ensure that my work does not exploit or harm wildlife. Whenever I photograph captive wildlife, I will ensure that their treatment is ethical and humane, and I will strive to always capture animals in their natural, wild habitats when possible.