There’s no doubt about it – sustainability is a universal concern. Organisations and practitioners across every sector are exploring new and innovative ways to reduce their environmental impact, and photography is no exception to this trend. But what does sustainability look like in photography, and how can photographers weave eco-responsibility into their day-to-day practice?
In this blog post, we’ll address this pressing topic, and offer practical advice and tips on how you can become a sustainable photographer.
Sustainable photography refers to the practice of taking and processing photographs in ways that minimise negative impacts on the environment. It encompasses a range of actions and decisions, from the choice of equipment and materials to the methods of processing and sharing photographs.
In practical terms, it means considering the environmental, social, and economic impacts of your photographic practices. It involves choosing eco-friendly materials, reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting ethical production methods. It also includes the broader social aspects, like fair labour practices in the production of photographic equipment.
Buy second-hand equipment
No matter what kind of photography you specialise in, buying second-hand gear is the easiest way to adopt a more eco-conscious approach as a photographer. It reduces the amount of e-waste that gets discarded across the globe and helps reduce the manufacturing demand for photography equipment.
E-waste is a term used to describe electronic equipment that’s thrown away by consumers. When disposed of improperly, it can lead to environmental hazards due to toxic substances like mercury and lead contaminating soil and water supplies. By buying second-hand and refurbished kit, you’re giving a new lease of life to technology that would otherwise end up in landfill.
Best of all, on top of being good for the environment, buying second-hand is also good for your budget. While websites like eBay continue to be popular for buying and selling second-hand equipment, trading platforms such as MBP specialise in photography kit.
Source equipment from more sustainable manufacturers
The process of manufacturing photography equipment is highly resource-intensive, so it’s worth seeking out and supporting camera manufacturers that prioritise sustainability. This includes those that use renewable energy sources, implement energy-efficient practices, and adopt comprehensive waste reduction and recycling programs.
By choosing cameras made with recycled metals and sustainable materials like bioplastics, you can help reduce the environmental impact associated with the extraction and processing of raw materials.
In terms of equipment maintenance, it's important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when it comes to proper battery care. This will extend the lifespan of lithium-ion batteries, reducing the need for frequent replacements and reducing e-waste as a result. When you do need to get rid of equipment, ensure that it’s recycled through appropriate channels to prevent hazardous substances from polluting the environment.
Opting for cameras with longer battery life and energy-saving features such as sleep mode and efficient power management can also contribute to reduced energy consumption during operation.
For a comprehensive analysis of the impact of cameras on the environment, we recommend this article from Cameras Unleashed.
Research the ethics behind the brands you’re buying from
It’s also vital to keep in mind that sustainable photography doesn’t just involve environmental concerns. It’s important to consider ethical implications, too.
Does the brand you’re buying from source its raw materials responsibly? When it comes to materials that need to be mined, are there clear standards for worker safety? The same goes for workers involved in the manufacturing and assembly process – are they paid a fair wage, and does the company employ people within local communities? It may be difficult to find this information, but research and reports from sources such as Ethical Consumer can shed light on which brands are making a genuine difference.
The debate between digital and analogue photography in terms of sustainability is complex. Each has its pros and cons.
Digital photography
Pros: Reduces the need for physical materials (film, paper, chemicals), minimises waste, and allows for easier sharing and storage without physical space.
Cons: Requires electronic devices that consume energy and contribute to electronic waste. The production and disposal of digital cameras and accessories have significant environmental impacts.
Analogue photography
Pros: Can be more sustainable if using eco-friendly films and chemicals. Some argue it has a smaller overall carbon footprint per photo taken, considering the longevity of analogue cameras.
Cons: Involves the use of chemicals in film development, paper for prints, and physical storage space. These chemicals can be harmful to the environment if not disposed of properly.
Overall, digital photography tends to be more sustainable due to the reduced need for physical materials and waste, especially when paired with energy-efficient practices.
Whether your practice as a photographer involves using digital or analogue technology, there are a few simple alternatives you can opt for when it comes to printing or developing images.
1. Recycled paper: For prints and marketing materials, use recycled or sustainably-sourced paper.
2. Eco-friendly inks: opt for non-toxic, vegetable-based inks instead of traditional petroleum-based inks.
3. Biodegradable films: Use biodegradable films and eco-friendly developing chemicals that are less harmful to the environment.
NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) have gained popularity in the art and photography world, but they come with significant sustainability concerns.
Are you keen to tackle sustainability issues and elevate your practice as a photographer? If so, then our 100% online MA Photography course could be the key to your future success.
For over 120 years now, we’ve been helping creative professionals like you achieve their full potential. Sustainability and ethics are two of our biggest concerns – we’re proud to weave these into all our courses, so graduates can answer the bigger questions and shape greener futures for their respective industries.
Best of all, since our courses are part-time and flexible, you can fit your studies around a full-time job – no matter where you’re based in the world.
To find out more about studying photography online with AUB, head to our course page:
Featured image credit: Lisa Doyle