In recent years, there has been controversy surrounding photographers and influencers who disregard the environment while pursuing their photography. How can you create a beautiful portfolio without causing harm to the planet? Here are some important guidelines to follow as a responsible landscape photographer.
Respect and Follow Signs
Always pay attention to and respect any signs posted at the location you are photographing. These signs may request that you do not cross certain boundaries, step on vegetation, or disturb the natural elements of the landscape.
Sadly, many people ignore these signs, leading to damage to the environment. For example, the lavender fields that were once beautiful were destroyed by Instagrammers who disregarded the landowners’ pleas to stay away. The plants were crushed under the feet of the thousands of visitors.
Ignoring signs can put yourself and the planet at risk. Is it worth capturing a breathtaking landscape if it means ruining it permanently?
Respect the signs, even if others do not. If a location has become overcrowded due to its popularity on social media, consider staying away instead of encouraging further visitation.
Be Conscious of Your Carbon Footprint
Pollution is severely impacting our planet, and the damage caused by human activity may never be fully reversible. Even if everyone were to change their habits and become eco-conscious, some damage is inevitable.
Consider the environmental impact of your photography expeditions. Do you drive a gas-guzzling vehicle or fly in a plane, contributing to air pollution? Do you bring single-use plastic items and dispose of them at the location?
There are eco-friendly alternatives to consider, such as using public transportation like trains or driving an electric vehicle. Change your shopping habits and avoid littering at the location. By reducing the use of plastic, you prevent it from entering the environment.
When you reach your destination, opt for hiking instead of driving around to different viewpoints. This is not only better for the environment but also allows you to explore more of the landscape and discover unique angles. Cycling is another eco-friendly option for traveling longer distances as it relies on your own physical energy rather than an engine.
Offset Your Carbon Footprint
Traveling to new locations inevitably leaves a carbon footprint. If landscape photography is your profession, your carbon footprint may be larger than that of the average person. Therefore, it is crucial to offset your impact on the environment.
Here are some ideas to reduce and offset your carbon footprint:
- Plant trees either at home or by supporting tree-planting charities
- Choose companies for transportation that have carbon offset policies in place
- Calculate the carbon cost of your travel and donate to carbon offset companies
- Power your home with solar panels or other renewable energy sources
- Select airlines with lower carbon emissions and newer, more efficient planes
- Stay longer in each location to capture a variety of shots and minimize additional travel
- Opt for direct flights instead of layovers to reduce take-off and landing emissions
- Choose economy class as it allows more passengers on the flight, making it a more efficient form of transport
- Consume locally-produced food
- Use energy-efficient lightbulbs at home and air-dry your laundry instead of using a dryer
Explore Your Local Area
If you are a hobbyist photographer, you don’t always have to travel great distances to capture amazing shots.
We often overlook the beauty in our own surroundings because they are familiar to us. However, to people from other parts of the world, your local landscapes could be extraordinary. Take the time to explore your nearby area, even if it’s just a short drive away. There may be hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Additionally, urban areas can offer unique cityscape shots or opportunities for social commentary.
Don’t feel compelled to always travel far to create an impressive portfolio. Incredible results can be achieved by focusing on your local area and becoming an expert in its unique topography. Spending more time exploring one location allows you to develop your photographic eye and capture distinct images that will enhance your portfolio.
Remember, you can capture breathtaking shots without harming the environment. Every choice you make as a landscape photographer can either contribute to the destruction or preservation of our planet. Choose to be an advocate for its preservation by following these tips and continuously seeking ways to minimize your personal impact.
