Photo Ethics

STEP 1 - LEARN• Today, you will learn how to act ethically

when taking and modifying photos.

1. Be accurate and comprehensive in the representation of subjects.

2. Resist being manipulated by staged photo opportunities. 3. Avoid stereotyping and avoid presenting your own biases in

work. 4. Treat all subjects with respect and dignity. 5. Do not intentionally contribute to, alter, or seek to alter or

influence events. 6. Do not manipulate image in anyway that can mislead viewers

or misrepresent subjects.

NATIONAL PRESS PHOTOGRAPHERS ASSOCIATION CODE OF ETHICS

This is an incomplete list. Go to nppa.org/code_of_ethics to learn more.

• Your goal as a photographer is to tell the story of an event while acting respectfully and purposefully.

• While at an event: – Get in on the action, but respect the rights of coaches, directors, and

participants to ask you to stop, not use flash, get out of their line of site, etc.

– Do not interfere with or stage action.– Communicate with coaches, directors and participants so they know

who you are and what you are doing. • If possible, wear a Yearbook Staff or Official Photographer t-shirt so

your purpose is obvious.

IN OTHER WORDS, WHEN AT EVENTS…

• When you are touching up photos using an editing software later, remember: – You may not alter the image to misrepresent the individual or action of a

photo. – Minimal edits are okay as long as the integrity of the original photo stays

intact – it is still the same photo, just minimally enhanced.

IN OTHER WORDS, WHEN EDITING…

ILLUSTRATIONIllustrative photo editing/manipulation is ethical unless intended to harm.

Whitney Butler, Bryant High School [AR]

BE RESPECTFUL

Celeste Fowler, Ola Middle School [GA]

ENHANCEMENTS

Minor adjustments for lights and darks or color correcting are ok.

Sara Benson, Shawnee Mission East High School [KS]

ENHANCEMENTS

Cut Out Backgrounds (COBs) are acceptable.

Highland Park High School [TX]

2000: University of Wisconsin Application

STEP 2 - PRACTICE• On the internet, search for National Press

Photographer’s Association’s code of ethics.

• On the Exit Ticket, list at least three ethical codes that you think are important for high school publications photographers.

STEP 3 - DO• Put your code of ethics into action.