Eco-Friendly Photography

Greener Business Choices & Sustainable Practices

Embracing sustainability while at the same time giving a great client experience sometimes seems challenging. At a basic level, businesses need to look at the equipment used and processes in getting things done. The goal: Minimize CO2 emissions and reduce the resource drain on the planet.

Accounting for an ecological footprint plays an important part in doing business in a beautiful state such as Colorado.

I hope you find sustainability important when selecting a photographer to serve you.

Paperless Office

In place of paper, business transactions happen electronically. This includes contracts, invoices, and receipts. A client dashboard that stores digital copies of all documents makes it easy to communicate and saves on paper waste.

When conducting business with outside vendors, using an online billing service replaces paper statements and eliminates mail delivery. Any contractors hired receive payment electronically.

Recycle Paper

For those rare times requiring a hard copy, printing on both sides of the paper helps cut down on waste. Unneeded printouts get placed in appropriate waste bins for recycling. Toner cartridges consumed during printing go back to the manufacturer for recycling.

Digital Galleries & Proofs

Online galleries and electronic proofs provide easy-to-use editing tools without waste. These also save time in making changes. Whenever possible, final photographic prints, wall art, albums, and photo books ship directly to clients instead of arriving at the studio first.

Rechargeable Batteries

Investing in pricier rechargeable batteries saves money over time and reduces waste. Rechargeable batteries designed for high-drain electronics offer fast recycle time, yet limit the release of toxic chemicals to the environment.

Durable, Quality Gear

Taking care of equipment enables longer use, keeping it out of landfills. Older gear exceeding its life cycle ends up resold or considered for donation. In some cases, equipment gets recycled.

Less Power Usage

Minimizing equipment’s energy use impacts overall consumption. Simple things like turning off camera equipment and lighting when not in active use and putting laptops to sleep cut down power use. Even turning off overhead lights when editing images helps. And, finally, decreasing the use of the back-of-camera display lessens battery usage.

Flash Considerations

Showing respect for animals includes minimizing the bright light of flash exposure. In instances of particularly sensitive creatures, flash use may be eliminated altogether.

In areas preserving historical objects, excluding the use of flash and strobe lights prevents damage to artifacts.

Local Support

Since transportation contributes to CO2 emissions and greenhouse gasses, it’s important to curtail freight/pollution. Shopping at local stores and suppliers keeps things greener for the environment and supports the fiscal health of the community.

Whenever possible, locations in closer proximity receive a higher recommendation for photo session sites. Carpooling with team members cuts down road traffic and fills up fewer parking spaces. Engaging in virtual online video meetings also cuts back on gasoline consumption and diminishes the environmental impact.

Environmental Respect

As a steward of the environment, all photographic sessions in natural areas, parks, or other open spaces abide by the “Leave no trace” motto. This means taking out what we take into the area.

This policy also includes respecting sensitive spots and out-of-bound areas, and preventing the disturbance of delicate ecosystems, especially in permitted areas. Staying on the path and not breaking away grasses, branches or other items ensures leaving things in a natural state. Respecting leash laws also helps maintain sensitive areas.

As a rule, all photo sessions prohibit the use of glitter or other non-degradable items. Cake smashes get cleaned up completely. All activities take place on the designated trails.

Final Thoughts

Mindfulness and a greener environment go hand in hand. As you plan for your event, you will want to ask your vendors how they support sustainability and will work with you to create an eco-friendly experience for you and your guests.