Ethical wildlife photography: a field guide for Australian photographers

Let natural behaviour set the distance

There is no single distance suitable for every species and situation. Learn the rules for the location and watch the animal: if it stops feeding, becomes alarmed, retreats or otherwise changes behaviour because of you, increase distance or leave. Use optics and fieldcraft rather than approaching for a tighter frame.

BirdLife Australia advises photographers to avoid nests, suspected nests, core territories and favoured feeding or drinking sites. It does not support call playback for recreational birdwatching or photography, and says drones should not be used because they may cause extreme disturbance. Avoid intense flash and spotlights as well.

Protect the place and tell the truth

Stay on roads, tracks and paths where they exist, do not modify vegetation and never enter private property or Indigenous lands without explicit permission. Do not feed, bait, touch or chase wildlife for an image. Parks Victoria similarly advises giving animals space and letting them feed themselves.

Be discreet with sensitive locations, particularly nests and vulnerable species. Caption photographs honestly, including relevant captive or controlled circumstances, and do not use editing to misrepresent the event. A missed photograph is preferable to a harmed subject.

• Check location rules and species-specific requirements.
• Back away when behaviour changes.
• Avoid nests, call playback, drones and intrusive light.
• Stay on paths and never alter habitat for a composition.
• Share sensitive locations cautiously and captions honestly.