Bird Photography - new Code of Practice

[JeffH]

Originally Posted by JeffH

.......If digital manipulation is used, in other words a material change to the subject matter, such as an extra bird added to (or removed from) the picture, a background change or other major cosmetic alteration, then this should be stated to avoid misleading the viewer and misrepresenting the subject"[/i].......

Originally Posted by RoyW

.....This one will, however, always remain contentious IMO. I think that different people will always have different opinions about what constitutes a big enough change to warrant 'declaration'. Personally I wouldn't feel any need to state that I had applied minor exposure adjustments, cropped and sharpened an image and removed a few blemishes + perhaps an obstructive twig - but others would consider this to be fairly processing.......

You may be right Roy but I think it's fairly clear from the language and examples - as in bold above - used by the author of this latest Code of Practice that his intention is that minor adjustments of the type you mention are outside the scope of the code and needn't be declared, as is generally accepted.

As for the 'us and them' arguments, having been both a birder and a photographer (but not always at the same time ) for more than 35 years I'm sorry to say that I have seen far too many bad examples of irresponsible and inappropriate behaviour by participants in both activities but, as others have said, in all areas of life there will always be those selfish individuals whose actions spoil things for the rest of us.

Jeff
(Schedule 1 Licence holder for Kingfishers, Barn Owls and Avocets)

[PMG]

New rules for photograph submissions

To return to this subject the link above is worth a read thro as the situation has moved on while I've been on holiday and the ramifications are as Jeff said above going to spoil things for the rest of us ...........
Pauline

[KentYeti]

Originally Posted by PMG

New rules for photograph submissions

To return to this subject the link above is worth a read thro as the situation has moved on while I've been on holiday and the ramifications are as Jeff said above going to spoil things for the rest of us ...........
Pauline

Thanks for that link Pauline.

I don't have any plans to submit my photos. But as someone still learning about bird photography and who considers himself reasonably responsible such guidelines should be of help in developing my own personal standards. As well as reminding me of the need to comply with the relevant legislation.

So the inclusion of "We are investigating the possibility of adding a more flexible "safe sites" system to photographs of Schedule 1 birds for future breeding seasons." could be of considerable benefit to me! If "safe sites" refers to physical locations.

I refer to the situation that has existed at Oare Marsh this breeding season for Avocets. With a nest circa 50 feet from the public access road, (used by those interested in birds, mariners, walkers and locals filling up from the fresh water supply), and a layby that is an official viewing point. A view point that sees constant human activity including a lot of photographers: "serious" and "not serious".

It has been quite clear to a rank newcomer to all aspects of bird watching and photography like myself that the human activity has had zero impact on the Avocets. They must have built the nest with a fairly constant traffic of cars and people passing close by.

So I have photographed from the road with a very clear conscience. From nest with eggs through to chicks taking their first steps. At most of those times shoulder to shoulder with other photographers and with plenty of bird watchers.

Indeed, having just checked the list of Schedule I birds, I see that Black Tailed Godwits are on it. Of which quite large numbers have been present on occasion at Oare Marsh in the same location very near the road, (I think in excess of 100 at least once).

I can only hope that such a location will be deemed a safe site in future years for those who wish to submit photos. And provide a clear conscience to those who may not make such submissions, but who look to the rules as setting down best practice.

Bryan

[Ukwildlifeo]

Originally Posted by PMG

New rules for photograph submissions

To return to this subject the link above is worth a read thro as the situation has moved on while I've been on holiday and the ramifications are as Jeff said above going to spoil things for the rest of us ...........
Pauline

Some of the drivel in the comments is hilarious.