Photography Ettiquette... We Live in a Society

[@donkinneyphotography]

Completely agree with this! When I go to a place with the word "park" in it, I (generally) expect to hear music, phone (or loud) conversations, dogs barking and kids screaming. When I go to a place with the word "refuge" or "preserve" in it, I expect to hear nothing but nature. I wish more people understood this concept (in my opinion).

[@rschellie]

I have had people walk up and try to start a conversation when I am sitting there with my eye to the eyepiece and my finger gently resting on the shutter button waiting for an action shot. Guaranteed, if you engage that person, the moment you're distracted is when the action will take place.

[@Adam-qs5ir]

100%

[@DavidMiller-SpectraProductions]

When I'm in the park with other photographers and I see something rare in the park. I will let other photographers know about it, but I never push anything on anyone. After I get my photos, I will look around and see if anyone else is trying to get a photo of a bird, I will signal them to take my spot if they want it, But I never push anyone to it. I try to boost the love of Nature and Photography and be polite so I can help other learn the "Code of Society" in wildlife and Photography. I remember the first time I spotted a Barred Owl. I just wanted to get the photo of him. When I see someone like that in the park I help them learn to setup and to enjoy looking at the birds as much as getting that photo.

[@dah7772]

I would agree 100% with what you said. I'm always surprised when people don't just naturally follow these rules because they seem to be common sense.

[@markarchibald3873]

I have a good friend who went to Glade Creek Grist Mill in Babcock State Park in West Virginia. This is a popular spot and most people shoot the scene of the grist mill across the stream, from the opposite bank. Several photographers had set up on this bank waiting for evening light. Along comes a woman who sets up her camera and CHAIR on the same bank as the mill, basically putting herself into every other photographers photo. Several photographers approached her asking that she move, she refused, saying someone will steal my spot. One photographer said, he would make sure she kept her spot if only she would move for a few minutes so those photographers across the stream to get good photos. She refused... after several attempts at reasonable negotiation, this same photographer set up his tripod directly between her and the mill, which gave her a taste of her own medicine. While this may not be the best solution, sometimes extremes must be taken to get a point across. It's amazing how some people just don't get it. I'm old school, sort of like you. There is common courtesy which should be applied in group situations. I don't think this concept is taught by either parents or teachers in this day and age.

[@WildlifeInspired]

It's kinda funny that they had to prove that point.

[@grahamleigh8398]

The only way my friend.Unfortunately Play the same game.

[@keithdavis9476]

So, so, so right! Several times I've been patiently set-up and photographing our local wild horses, when someone sees them and decides to get closer by walking in front of my lens. Every time the horses get spooked, and my session is over.

[@bigjim4983]

What great timing you have. I'm heading to Conowingo Dam tomorrow for the first time in three years. I only live 25 minutes away but I can't deal with the people. Etiquette is so important when you're nearly shoulder to shoulder with other photographers. The most common issue there is people who get there three hours later than they should and try to squeeze between the people who got there early. The other thing that bothers me is the people who want to show me pictures from their last trip to Conowingo on their phone. I'm waiting for an eagle to fish at any second. I can't look at someone's phone. Hopefully tomorrow goes well and I won't need to stay away for three more years.

[@dangomola5055]

Another thing I find annoying at the dam is when an eagle is going to fly close, you have 100+ people screaming "eagle, eagle, eagle" in several different languages.

[@siuk91]

I love the “read the room” comment. Photography became a hobby for me about 4 years ago, and I found your channel about 2 years ago. Wish I’d found it sooner! Jamey

[@jasoneldridgephotography]

I agree with all of these and it isn’t about trampling rights. It’s about being a decent human. In a world where we can be anything, be kind.

[@Gogogordy1]

Well done, and I agree with the entire video. The group is the group, and when you add yourself to the group, you are in…the group!

[@waynetuckson7909]

This was very much appreciated. Sometimes we photographers, perhaps without malice of forethought , interfere with with normal commerce by impeding traffic on small country roads , risk our own and the safety of others while trying to get “the” shot at public events, and by our mere presence disrupt sales and private moments. This can lead to uncomfortable confrontations and I often am guided by, if I don’t have permission , or the situation seems possibly disruptive, then I’m not taking the shot. Though we are photographers, many are also wildlife enthusiasts and this often, at least for me, puts us in awkward confrontations with the hunting and fishing enthusiasts. As much as I would like to discuss boundaries and mutual respect, I’ve found that my camera, no matter the size speaks much softer than a rifle or other gun. The fisherman, whether out for sport or sustenance, also has little or no regard for how long we sit waiting and watching that heron, duck, or other bird to get closer and do some dramatic act. My only recourse, when facing the hunter and or fishing enthusiast, has been to give in and move on. Thanks again for this piece.

[@yvonnerichard6099]

Thanks for this video, I SO agree with you! Couple of things I would add: respect park rules- if it says to stay in the track do it! And this might sound contrary to what you said but it’s not really: if there is only one spot with an open view to the subject, don’t hog it forever once you have your shots. Let others have a turn.

[@jefferyrobbins3468]

Treat others as you want to be treated, which I do. However, that said, when i'm in a public area, I expect interruptions. Goes with the territory, so I dont have a coronary over it. Bikers, hikers, birders, kids, nature viewing, dog walking, etc are always around. I do what hunters have learned to do: go where other people are not, know your quary, conceal yourself, and be patient/wait for the right photo opportunity. I understand the concerns here, but I'd rather adapt (as I stated above) rather than try to change human nature.

[@musiqueetmontagne]

I agree 100% with most of what you said or were pointing out. I'm in my late 60's and can see a huge change in ethics and behaviors generally. This "I have the right to do what I want" attitude which IMHO has been exacerbated massively by social media where people feel free to insult and generally to behave with great disrespect but where there are no consequences. This is pushing a decline in values and of society in general, especially in the western democracies. Freedom and rights are attached strongly to responsibility and general respect for others, their space, their feelings, theirs well-being. Standards have slipped considerably and it is an indicator that society may well change out of all recognition and not for the better.

[@WildlifeInspired]

love that line about freedom and responsibility

[@ajc1482]

The one thing I say when I get the "I have the right to say/act however I want"...is sure but you also have to be prepared to deal with the consequences that might arise from what you say or do.

[@tcnaturephotography1294]

Well, this definitely gives me something to think about. While I think I'm respectful of "the line" and being quiet around subjects, etc. I can be pretty social and enthusiastic when meeting new photographers especially if I've seen their work online prior. Maybe my questions can wait 😂 In some situations, I also need to remember that most of the photos we get are in national parks and those parks belong to everyone. This was a couple summers ago in Banff. I had just finished photographing a beautiful reflective lake and some other photographers had begun setting up to shoot. Well, a group of teenagers showed up and started skipping stones. Selfishly, I got my shot but you wouldn't believe the rage from those other photographers. I also see both sides of that 'conflict' since photographers don't own the lake or the view.

[@Trigger-xw9gq]

Just before half-way in the video you mentioned about "rights", and that's the general problem in society overall, is that most people are focused on their rights, rather than their responsibilities. If it were the other way around, what a different world it would be.

[@WildlifeInspired]

Well put.

[@peterm.2501]

I agree with all of your points or rules. I believe in the "Golden Rule" and its corollary that "my rights end where yours begin." Those seem to cover most situations, whether in photography or something else. I also like the comment you shared to "read the room," even, or maybe especially, when the room is the "great outdoors."

[@ericsmith9777]

Thought provoking video Scott !! Thanks. As a wildlife photographer, who spends countless days in our National Parks here in Canada. I see it all the time. I totally agree on "respect the line" with the exception of......if I'm the first one there. I've earned the right to do my thing, respect that !!!! Example: last spring, I was photographing a bear (first one there), and didn't hear another photographer come up behind me. When I moved, for a better angle, he (the photographer) came unglued on me as I moved in front of him. When I asked him why he didn't indicate he was behind me. it was more of the same, and.... I'll leave it at that. Motto: Get out early and off the beaten track....that way you only have yourself to contend with !! Cheers, and good luck out there......

[@JohnPepp]

And they say Americans are thoughtless. Did you ever consider the person who came later had farther to travel. However, with that bear example I be more than happy to let you be the one closest to the bear. 🤣 So it's OK for you to get in a person line of sight but it's not alright for them to do it. Here's a novel idea how about no one getting in the line of sight of another photographer? I'm sure the wilderness is large enough area to do that especially a National Park.

[@WildlifeInspired]

The lonelier. The better.

[@ericsmith9777]

@@JohnPepp Wow, did you even read what I had written John ?? What's traveling "farther" got to do with things. Appears you missed the point....... As I said, I DIDN'T hear him come up behind me (30 feet or so) AND..... he didn't let me know he was THERE until I moved, THEN he bitched me out for getting in his way !! As you put it John, Americans are thoughtless, so maybe he was one of them. I'll be in Jasper National Park in early June and again late September. Hope to see you there John, love to introduce you to some bears !!!!

[@ericsmith9777]

@@WildlifeInspired So true !!

[@TerryKontopoulos]

You are SOOOO right! Respect is losing ground to individuality... I like it and I don't care if is a problem for the other! Unfortunately that's how many of the "New" photographers thinking...

[@ruley74]

Great topic Scott, to be honest I’m doing very little shooting at the moment particularly locally, and it’s mostly due to people, and things around this topic… very much over the increased societal norm of only thinking of one’s self.

[@DanimalJ3666]

“You kids GET OFF my lawn!!!” Just teasing, agree with most of this

[@WildlifeInspired]

Im getting there......

[@LightTheShadows]

I totally agree with the principles you mentioned although there are nuances between cultures for me. I am German and I guess I do have a different level of perception than what an American has regarding social behaviour. To me there is one rule that guides me through my social interactions and that is: my freedom ends where I restrict the freedom of someone else (might not be the best translation). In German: „meine Freiheit endet dort, wo sie die Freiheit anderer einschränkt.“ I experience the same changes in behaviour of younger people. „Me first“ seems to be the mantra of one part of the younger generation. On the other hand there are a lot of young folks who have a high involvement in charity and communities. To me personally it seems that we are moving towards extremes and I am afraid that won’t be a good thing…

[@kevodonnell4765]

I have watched a few of your videos. Mainly about gear. I also have watched videos about the techniques you use for photographing wildlife. I have enjoyed them all. But this video has "Hit the nail on the head" I totally agree.

[@WildlifeInspired]

Awesome, thank you!

[@chuckgmanleyphotos7197]

Good list, in short respect of animals, others a surroundings. Yes things have changed.

[@kababco]

With regard to 'the line', if one is viewing buffalo and an adult that has been warned wants to pet the fluffly cow, you let them...

[@WildlifeInspired]

And deep down maybe you hope a lesson is learned

[@csnyderphoto]

Completely agree with these. I think at least some of the problem stems from social media where people have become so accustomed to sitting behind the anonymity of a screen and have allowed that to translate into real life. Some will insist they have the right to do something, but that's never the point. Just because you can doesn't mean you should.

[@chrismalysiak8330]

I really enjoyed this video and agreed with it completely. One of my biggest problems with people these days is that there seems to be a trend towards “me over everyone else”, meaning people do whatever they want without concern of how it impacts or inconveniences others. The worst part is that if you call out someone’s bad behavior, no matter how politely, you’re likely to be considered the ahole in their eyes.

[@kenwilcox5418]

Video definitely deserves a thumbs up. I’m 💯agree with you! Just like you I’m from a generation seems like there is less respect in today’s world.

[@davidfitzpatrick7399]

I've seen many things, from people parking their vehicle in front of me, walking into the shot, standing beside me and invading my space. I really do hate people when I have a camera in my hands and that a lot when I'm out in public especially the mountains looking for wildlife. Fences or rails don't keep people back but my big pet peeve: Let your do go on a trail and leave the offering in the middle of the trail, your animal is not wild pick it up. If I pull off the road for a break and want to take a little hike pike it up the crap. Be kind to each other but give people their space, animals do attack!!!

[@stevethompson8154]

Call them what you will: respect, consideration, or rights. A good deal of the conflicts could quickly and easily resolved with some communication. Never be afraid to assert your opinions when another crosses the line. To many folks are afraid to let others know when they cross the line. They are great at complaining about it after the fact but then no one gets the education they need.

[@JohnPepp]

The problem is some photographers with that 600mm lens and you are in the Forrest does it sound fair someone with a 400mm lens can't get closer? I don't, not as I am being quiet and not getting in their line of sight or disturbing the wildlife.

[@calebplumleeoutdoors]

You had me at speakerphone in public... it's the worst... especially in quiet parks. 😢

[@WildlifeInspired]

The worst.

[@ajc1482]

Loud music on a bus always annoys me, especially if it's loud enough to cut through the noise cancellation on my headphones.

[@cliftonwhittaker260]

The only thing that never changes is that everything always changes. I turned 82 years old last week and I can say I've seen a heap of changes over my lifetime , but never as fast as things have changed in the last five to ten years. Most of it is not for the better, according to my point of view. It is to the point where I'm mildly surprised if someone treats me and/or my wife who is the same age, or anyone else with what used to be considered common courtesy. Women in particular seem to think that the rules of courtesy don't apply to them. How many times have I been going into a store behind a woman and she just lets the door slam in my face? It has come to the point where I just count on that type of behavior and watch out for the door because I know it is going to slam in my face. Maybe people are treating others with less respect because they have lost respect for themselves. Vulgar language and manner of dress are two prime examples. And no one seems to care because no one can do anything about so it has become accepted. Or, if not accepted, we just have to try to ignore it. These things make life less pleasant for everyone, even the people who are doing it.

[@kerrygrim7934]

Excellent points, all of them. Liked also what you mentioned about oversharing and being an expert. As an outdoor photographer and birder (they so much parallel one another) from back in the late 1970s, yes, I can very definitely see changes in human behavior. People had more respect for one another then. Most people I believe still do, but there at least seems to be a more competitive attitude and more I will do as I please attitude now. I definitely tend to stay away from groups of birders/photographers. I rarely go to Middle Creek to see Snow Geese. Last visit, everyone was jammed together, I stayed away. In doing so I was ready with one of the best sunrises I ever saw. I wasn’t distracted by all the people talking.

[@edsassler]

I just try not to be an asshole…

[@WildlifeInspired]

literally my rule lol

[@WildlifeInspired]

made for too short of a video topic lol

[@cliftonwhittaker260]

That about sums it up.

[@ManchmalGaming]

Gut feeling is key!

[@TheWildlifeGallery388]

100% agree with you every step of the way - I say it all the time, the worst mannered people I encounter while out Photographing Wildlife are other so called Wildlife Photographers and especially those that label themselves as "A PROFESSIONAL."

[@vintermane_2728]

100% agree with pretty much everything on this list. Especially the oversharing bit and advice bit. Idk how many times someone has taken my attention away from my subject because they want to show me something they took that has nothing to do with the subject I am focused on (why? I don’t know you) or because they think I don’t see another subject/opportunity. I was waiting for a very specific shot for well over 40 mins this weekend and i had a number of other photographers try to tell me to come photograph a subject I was “missing out on”. It was two beavers no joke, at least 500 feet away. Some people don’t understand that a lot of us go out for someone specific or a specific look and don’t want just anything. A few of these people got upset I said thank you but wasn’t interested in photographing them. I also had a few men argue with me over a species because they didn’t agree with my ID and thought they were right, and since they don’t see me often, assumed I had no idea what I was talking about. I think a good chunk comes down to people wanting recognition or follows. I think some of it is just people trying to connect with someone which I can’t fault anyone on. Personally when I go out, I tend to go to places I know I won’t be bothered with and expect a certain level of “noise” or disturbances when I go to other places. But some people definitely take it way too far and have zero idea how to, as you said, “read the room”. If someone isn’t making eye contact with you and is clearly focused on something else, leave them alone. When they step away, you can engage. It’s common courtesy people don’t seem to have anymore.

[@stebobrown2893]

Very interesting video and I am a BIG believer in a polite society. With nature photography I feel that what you talk about is very practical. I also shoot events where photographers are only allowed in a small, restricted area. This is cutthroat and people fight for position for the shot. I've had other photographers stand right in front of my lens, grab my lens and I've almost been pushed off a platform from behind. I prefer the polite approach every time but sometime being in the frenzy of the shoot won't allow it. Thanks for giving us such an interesting topic!

[@MrCat-rk9ir]

I try to avoid people now. This is just a hobby and I don't owe anyone else whatever I do with stuff. Beware of those people that seem too nice but they actually have a lot of issues and they will drag you into their drama. Best to learn photography is to be out there and research online if you need to learn something. KZbin university is usually a pretty good place to learn😊

[@mikedavis1110]

Agree with you on the basic rules, social standards and the do’s and don’ts ! I am out to take photos and not have a in-depth conversation with a stranger, don’t care for loud talkers, and mutual respect. I like the “Read The Room” comment to gage the area. General talk is fine or gear info is fine to basic info, if both are agreeable. I have been out on the beach photographing and a guy lets his dog loose and scares the birds away or someone walks between me and the bird that I am shooting. While others will wait, walk around or ask if they can go through! Even in a group of friends taking the same photo, one will take the photo and walk into the shot to get closer. Mutual Respect should be the given policy, unless the other person is agreeable to interacting. One’s Right doesn’t mean you can interfere on my Rights! Enjoy the outdoors and practice the Art of Photography is my goal.😊

[@johnclarke1319]

WE should never USE images with other people's faces ( etc) in them without their consent. Difficult but the only right way. that really screws most street photography.

[@neilyeomans9805]

I go to a park with bird hides in it you get dogs out of control running through the viewing area they do not care. One apparently jumped through the viewing window followed by the owner screaming at it. I live on a river and the amount of dogs out of control baiting the swans is unbelievable. These people are well dressed educated people who you would think would know better.

[@sethsawyer7074]

These used to be known as the unwritten rules and everyone went by them.

[@RetrieverTrainingAlone]

I always pick up litter on my way back to the truck. I think of it as my personal tax for the privilege to use a National Wildlife Refuge across the street from our Montana home. I don't understand why people litter!

[@FaithTechPhoto]

Awesome list! Don't be the "expert" should be number 1

[@grega9220]

I cant say thank you enough for this... Thanks for keeping us all on point. That said, we really we only need two rules. #1 Dont be a "D" and #2 see #1. I honestly think everyone knows if they are in violation of #1. They just choose to "abide" or not. Loved your last don't. While I was shooting a back lit object I was told the light was better from the other side.. I was like, um OK, thanks. ;-)

[@WildlifeInspired]

thats my rule of ethics.... just stated dont be an A-hole..... I think the problem is that many people not longer recognize this status or are too entitled to believe it applies to them.

[@Adam-qs5ir]

Here's a don't. When you see someone prostrate in the grass next to a body of water taking shot after shot of water fowl that are only feet away...DO not come rushing in to kick up a conversation in a loud voice...this happened to me today. Also, I do this to connect with nature, to just be out there and zen...I do not want small talk.

[@luisfigueroa3300]

You are right on point Scott. Good video!👍

[@rschellie]

Here is a question. if someone crosses the line in regard to etiquette, do you remain silent or confront them?

[@WildlifeInspired]

I think that's up to the person and their comfort level. I am not good with conflict.

[@rschellie]

@@WildlifeInspired I remember being told when I was young that we teach people how we want to be treated by the behaviors we are willing to accept. Polite and assertive normally wins the day.

[@bigdaftorangedog]

You hit so many nails SQUARE on the head with this video! Well said 👊

[@Mark-ks9jj]

"common sense" & respect are in short supply these days whether in photography or life in general. Social media obsession & personal right to do, seems to be all too common in wilderness situations, be quiet, be respectful or get the F^$#% away from others.

[@johnclarke1319]

we should NEVER post images of other people, or store them on line. their images are your sacred responsibility, NEVER give an image to an AI to adjust, you cannot trust an AI

[@tysonator5433]

Some very interesting topics for conversation. My experience with stepping in front of the lens was when I attended an organised paid pinup Wat bubs shoot at a local aerodrome. One guy not so politely asked me to move as my shadow ( as this was an afternoon out door shoot ) was crepping in to his shot. I was standing, he was crouching as we were shooting at different subjects. I did move, however he took his shot, and many, many , many more at my expense. Late in the shoot he walked in front of me and stood in front of my lens. I added him to move politely, he ignored he. So I was walked in front of him, and of course he had an objection to this. At that point I unloaded my temper at him, let's say he he kept on his full frame camera was going where the sun really does not shine. He stated I was too agressive and needed to clam down, well I did not and he was close to getting a slap. I made a complaint to the organisers and they informed me he was a known issue at these events, well I suppose money is money. From that day I stand for no shite from anyone at these shoots, and was he was not the only rude, arrogant, ignorant person who attends such shoots. I have people come up me and thank me for being fair and refereeing bad players as other people are just not confident in confronting such rude individuals. Well watch out because I will,......note. I have worked out for years, do martial arts, been in the TA, so I am quite happy getting physical !.

[@CarstenBruhn]

Interesting topic. I for myself can say i experienced situations where i wanted to get rid of an individual following me just because i carry a big lens. He was talking loud and breaking twigs all the time walking and a complete talking head, chasing me in the field, and i was just trying to do my thing - finding birds. Realizing he was newbie I tried to be pollite, and answer his questions, but i was annoyed at the same time that my own activity was ruined . How would you suggest i should approach a such situation ?

[@WildlifeInspired]

I think it's okay to say. Thanks for your interest, but I try to shoot alone

[@DavidPinkus2309]

100% bang on the money!!!!

[@speedways1]

You are correct, the world has changed and not necessarily for the good. I experienced an oddity a few years back. In a National Park, I like to use two tripods on remote triggers. I was totally alone, shooting away. A tour bus pulled up with many, can I say, from another country. Immediately I had someone just walk up and he’s got his nose pushed up against one of my cameras, looking through the view finder. I did not hold back, “excuse me, get away from my camera”. Was I wrong? I’ve had similar experiences in many different countries also. I just don’t understand the rudeness. Leave me alone, thanks.

[@sklett68]

100% agree with all points: And the accepted norms are being encroached upon by, I think, a COVID-spawned newer group of "nature" photographers that act in entitled ways and seek "instant gratification" images primarily for social media likes. Groups of photographers meet up with coffee and donuts and clear cut areas to watch feeding green herons by me, for example. People cruise in their cars and look for someone photographing something and jump out and run right next to them to take the same photo. It's a bit nuts. And most of the people I've seen involved in this have only been shooting 3-4 years or so.

[@escofrisch-5711]

Your point about people cruising up in cars and jumping out next to you occurs constantly at Bombay Hook Preserve and it drives me crazy! A tripod seems to be like a magnet for the curious and clueless.

[@VinceMaidens]

This is my life. I think I experience this most times I’m out if there are people around. I usually roll up find my spot for what I want to achieve, and then become surrounded by 1 or many people who exemplify what you state in every single rule. My personal favourite is the expert, someone coming onto the scene who you don’t know at all, maybe get to know them before you offer any level of advice. It’s a real challenge here in the UK. Charlotte who is one of the better wildlife photographers you’ll ever meet is either totally ignored in the field or then treated like a child by men with no semblance of talent. It’s both entertaining and annoying. Needless to say you can imagine my reaction to it.

[@WildlifeInspired]

Charlotte would be schooling most people! Maybe even you sometimes lol.

[@VinceMaidens]

@@WildlifeInspiredwho are we kidding… mostly me.

[@danbrown8979]

Good set of rules and "laws". To add, should we be the "ettiquette police" while with a group or just walk away?

[@ajc1482]

As a man in my 40's I do find myself confused by the behaviour of others these days, a recent example. A child ran into me on his scooter out of nowhere, and his mother started to shout at me because I didn't apologise. Your owl story is exactly the same as what happened to myself last year. This person wasn't oblivious as there was a line of 50 people so it was quite hard to miss but they decided to walk a further thirty feet towards the SEO hunting obviously blocking off a lot of shots. The only question I think it's ok to ask is "has the (subject) been spotted yet?"...after that I'll stay quiet and try to leave the hide or area with as little fuss as possible. One thing I hate is when I've been set up waiting for Shorebirds to make an appearance and someone just lets their dog or child run in front of my lens, I understand that it's often an accident but it's definitely been done deliberately on a few occasions.

[@garymc8956]

Somebody has to say this.

[@TomReichner]

I've taken some heat and hate for using a playback speaker for songbirds ... and this is in situations when I am the only person anywhere around for a long time, the first and only one in the woods, then after an hour or so someone will come along into "my" area, and then give me a mean, judgmental lecture for having or using a speaker. Of course if there are others around I am not going to pull out a speaker ..... but when I am totally alone and then someone comes into an area that I am clearly established at, I feel it is wrong for them to harangue at me. In areas where it is completely lawful to use playback calls, and when there are hundreds / thousands of acres to roam, and only a few people in all that vast space, "you do you, I'll do me" is a pretty reasonable perspective to have.

[@WCIN]

Remind folks with drones whilst your there with you still cameras over the subject

[@baramirm1509]

I'm a woman wildlife photographer in my late fifties, and the amount of "expertise" I get from men is scary. Without knowing how good or bad my skills are, without ever having seen a single photo of mine, they take the right to assume I want and need their help. Part of photography is Physics, and women don't seem to be able to understand physics 🙄 Very very very annoying. The other day a man looked at my camera and lens and started to comment on the price. I tried to not engage in the conversation, but he didn't feel the room. There were about 10people there and he made it sound as if the equipment was too high end for a woman 😠 It made me angry and I had to leave the place there to find a quiet place where I could connect with my camera and nature again, and go back to happy 😊

[@WildlifeInspired]

A lot of my female friends tell similar stories.

[@lisamarie7527]

Such great valid points. I would agree with your suggestions of etiquette, however, if I see a crowd of photographers, I go the other way. There’s always one expert in the crowd. Not interested

[@JocelynAndersonPhotography]

That guy is a rube. Recently there was a guy at a local park who told a woman that he would help teach her photography if she "would get a real camera" (she had a DSLR.) 🙄 Can't have too high end gear or too low end gear I guess 🤷‍♀

[@yvonnerichard6099]

Also being a female in that age group, I agree it does happen and it’s really annoying especially considering I’ve had a camera in my hands since I was 9 years old. And the worst is when they mostly say platitudes.

[@tc6912]

The other side of the story! I am a relatively introverted male. 67 years old and taking photographs since I was 18. On group workshops, there always seems to be a woman who feels the need to mother me. Just because I am not talking, bragging, or engaging the way you think I should, doesn't mean I am not thinking or in desperate need of your help.

[@SomeonewithaSony]

What drives me nuts is the guy that brings a chair to the pond to shoot ducks, but he sits 20 feet back from the shoreline. I’m itching and burning inside wanting to go crawl up to the edge and lie flat on the shore, but because we’re living in a society I become the smartest one at the pond…

[@woodymeristem2223]

The vast majority of birders and bird photographers are annoying, if not to say obnoxious. That's why I almost always go it alone. If you've been to Middle Creek WMA when there are 100,000 snow geese there, the photographers just won't stay behind a line of signs prohibiting entry. That's not an unusual situation, so I don't want to be anywhere that there are a lot of other folks. Cell phones have been the bane of those of us who like peace and quiet.

[@Paul-fk7gl]

👍

[@ScottHammel005]

If your camera has silent shutter, use it! 😆

[@tiffingham]

I think you are sound on all your "rules". @jasoneldridgephotography put it right too, IMHO, Be a decent human being. Be aware of other people, thier needs, wants and likes. It is not all about ME, ME, ME. We all have to play together on this rock, let's play nice.

[@johnvaleanbaily246]

Yup, quite right.

[@brandesd]

Is it any wonder that i shoot my own spots alone 90% of the time? I'm there to be with nature

[@dickblystone4288]

This just happened, Scott (~4/10). A mix of well meaning people and some that were clearly not obeying 'the rules'. Main problem was the den is too accessible: "We will be temporarily closing the Bear Swamp loop portion of the wildlife drive at Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge to protect wildlife and people. An adult female fox with kits has a den adjacent to the wildlife drive which has drawn an extensive number of visitors to the area. Individuals have been seen blocking the road, parking illegally, and setting out lawn chairs in an attempt see and photograph the foxes. There have also been reports of individuals blocking the female fox from returning to the kits and attempting to lure the foxes with dog toys. Recent crowding of the foxes has led to at least one accidental fox death. To protect the foxes from further injury and harassment, and protect people from potential motor vehicle injuries or injuries from defensive foxes, we are temporarily closing the loop. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in keeping Bombay Hook a safe place for wildlife and people."

[@The_CGA]

Sorry not everyone has the longest lens and needs to be a little closer-your privelige as a big lens boy is kinda showing. And then there’s just a different look and a different ambition to capturing wildlife closer. If you’re out there at 300 mm and I’m kitted out at 135mm to get video and capture from some natural panning and camera movement…do you control the whole space? Since getting into photography it’s been a very lonely and cold experience, it’s like people with cameras are allergic to one another. And you’re kinda confirming that impression.

[@WildlifeInspired]

So, its okay to walk in front of others to take pictures, because you "need" to be closer? Maybe knowing this you could shoot at a location away from others.? I think you miss the entire point of this and not sure how much you watched. The ENTIRE premise is to respect others. Do you disagree with that? If you are shooting wildlife with a 100mm lens, I suggest you buy an older cheaper longer lens. I can't control that this hobby requires some equipment, I didn't make that rule to exclude you. This is the reality of the hobby. And don't even try the privilege angle on me. I have worked since I was 16 years old, multiple jobs, raised 4 kids. I currently hustle a side job to be able to afford the gear I own. I was not born with a silver spoon my friend. There is a big difference between privilege and working for what you have. You might want to know your audience before trying to criticize them.

[@PeterLariviere]

I don't know if it was social conformity as much as it was respecting others.

[@davidroberts5535]

This is all good with photographers but it’s the younger “TikTok or instagram me, me, me” generation who are the problem. For example, at Arches NP at sunset, you have those folks climbing all over the arches with their phones taking selfies. Social media is the downfall of our society.

[@WildlifeInspired]

It's been awful on many respects.

[@andrewlamberson539]

Don’t slam your car door!!!!!

[@WildlifeInspired]

YES!

[@alexg0742]

here here...

[@johnclarke1319]

nice talk, but surely nothing your mother did not tell you, simply courtesy! Etiquette No 1 don't take pictures with people's faces without their permission. An never save where an AI can access the image if it has any people in it who did not give permission.

[@vzshadow1]

Scott, you think it's changed? You are a young fellow. How do you think I feel???? You're pretty much on the money

[@mguerramd]

Jesus said “Love one another as you love yourself”. That’s really easy to understand, in every aspect of life.

[@foto-spective]

Honestly when they pull out the phone and want me to suddenly stop what I'm doing to view all their photos, it drives me nuts. 😂 It can't be just me.

[@WildlifeInspired]

shared experiences lol

[@humanmeyer6982]

Your words are GOLDEN!!

[@molokaibicycles]

Yes. Read the room. 👍

[@djbrickhouse1]

I read this years ago. I wish I could remember the exact quote, but to paraphrase: Etiquette is the grease that lubricate the wheels of interactions and society in general. I think its a quote everybody should live by. Unfortunately some people are just too self absorbed to read the room.

[@maryshields1935]

Major pet peeve is when people play their video games with volume on in waiting rooms. I have had people step right in front of me while taking a photo. Dogs running loose in refuges. I experienced a person throwing a rock at a bear that way lying down on the side of the road because they wanted an action shot of the bear! Common sense is disappearing!!