Ethics and No-No’s - Emerging Photographers at Horse Events

Hey Fellow Emerging Horse Photographers!
I am putting together a series of topics for emerging Equestrian Photographers. These topics will cover protocols at events, guide to post processing sports images, tips on culling, action paces and better images, better business practices etc

I have been a sports photographer now for over 20 years. I have photographed anything and everything from children’s Local Sports to International World Championships. Out of all the different sports I have photographed, horses is definitely the most unregulated during the proceeding of an event and has the most amateurs photographers. Which is quite worrisome as it’s IMO one of the most dangerous sports to photograph.

So to start off with is Ethics and No-No’s at Events. This is such a hot topic around the world at the moment. Most of the mistakes are made from emerging photographers simply from a lack of knowledge, not intention to do harm. Anything that is fast paced and action is going to be a saturated industry and draw out all the emerging and hobby photographers - whether it’s motor sports, ball sports or equestrian. There are rules, protocols and ethics to follow. This may vary event to event, state to state and country of origin.

Photography Ethics and Some No-No’s
When attending an event where there is an Official Photographer, but you have permission with the OC and OP to take some photos these are some of the no-no’s photographers around the world have expressed.

Do not interfere with the OP’s photos - photobombing shots, trying to take the same shot. Just don’t.

If you have permission to do media/marketing images - then only do it for that purpose. Do not overstep your bounds by giving away/selling images to the exhibitors without permission from the OC.

Having permission to photograph a friend or two does not mean you capture more and approach competitors offering to send them free photos.

Have permission to photograph to sell to limited clients - some events OC/OP may allow you to photograph 1-10 paying clients. Again only capture those clients. Do not overstep and photograph any one else or approach anyone else after the event with free or cheap photos.

If you are given permission to practice, it does not mean you can promote your work from that event on personal page or social media, or send people images you took.

Don’t be sneaky and photograph without permission.

Never ever undersell the official photographer. Never give away free photos where there is an official photographer.

Be a decent human with some respect. Don’t try and capitalise on an event. Horse Sports is a tough industry. New model cameras have made getting a decent photo easier, but it takes years to develop a good eye, anticipation of the sport, paces and creating quality photos. If you are portfolio building and learning visit a local riding school, pony club rallies, coaches and clinics, horse rescue centres, and RDA centres and learn your craft there. Or contact an Official Photographer and seek mentorships.