How you can be as conscious of the environment as possible while honing your craft? As the visual ambassadors who capture the beauty in life, humanity and nature, all photographers should ask themselves this question. Here are a few quick tips for respecting the environment you’re shooting in and the planet you're living on.
Follow the Rules
If you’re in a state park and a sign says not to trespass or not to use flash photography, don’t do it. Even if you don’t understand or agree with the reasons for the rules, they exist to protect the land, wildlife and visitors alike.
Sell Your Old Equipment and/or Buy Used Equipment
If you have equipment that isn’t being used, sell or trade with a fellow photographer. If you’re in the market for new equipment, consider buying used. Why purchase something that needs to be manufactured from scratch when you can give an unused camera a good home?
Be Mindful of Your Materials
Products like SilverGrain and ECO PRO are great for processing film without high levels of toxins. In addition, you should ask your printer if they carry environmentally friendly substrates, inks, etc. They may have more options than you think—and if they don’t, they may start to carry them if enough photographers request them.
Use High-Quality Rechargeable Batteries
Rechargeable batteries make for less waste in the long run. And if they’re long lasting, you won’t have to plug them in as often, saving electricity as well. Avoid third-party camera batteries; they typically don’t live as long and need to be recharged frequently.
