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Ethics

Barn Owl. Photo: Donyanedomam/iStock

The most important rule of bird photography? Do no harm. Here you’ll find guidelines and tips to help you ensure that your perfect shot doesn’t come at the expense of your subject.

Ethics

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.

All Ethics Stories

The Ethical Bird Photographer
Ethics

The Ethical Bird Photographer

Some commonsense guidelines can help you get the shots you want while protecting the birds you love.

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Why Closer Is Not Always Better When Photographing Birds
Ethics

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.

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Too Close for Comfort
Ethics

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?

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When It's Okay (or Not) to Feed Birds
Ethics

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.

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Why You Shouldn't Feed or Bait Owls
Ethics

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.

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Why Baiting Owls Is Not the Same as Feeding Backyard Birds
Ethics

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.

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Is Flash Photography Safe for Owls?
Ethics

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.

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How I Learned to Safely Photograph Beach-Nesting Birds
Ethics

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.

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Do’s and Don’ts of Nest Photography
Ethics

Do’s and Don’ts of Nest Photography

You should always photograph birds responsibly. But you have to be extra responsible during nesting season.

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Rare-Bird Sightings: Share or Shut Up?
Ethics

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.

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Can’t Photographers and Birders Just Get Along?
Ethics

Can’t Photographers and Birders Just Get Along?

The rivalry needs to stop—for the good of the birds.

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How to Use Birdcall Apps
Ethics

How to Use Birdcall Apps

Apps that play birdsong can be a terrific tool for birders and bird photographers—as long as they’re used responsibly.

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