World Wildlife Photographer of the Year Exhibition

[Brownbear]

Hi Bryan,

Just to say that I think your wildlife images are absolutely gorgeous and it matters not whether taken in a zoo or an aquarium, etc. Oftentimes harder to get a beautiful image because of the surroundings!

My comment is with respect to wildlife competitions (when defined as non-captive/baited etc) and also my personal ethics/values. I fell in love with an image of a frog seemingly holding a leaf as an umbrella to shield itself from the rain. Later I learned that many photographers stage such such shots with live critters/insects gluing them into amusing positions for the sake of photograph. I can't even look at an image of a frog anymore without thinking how it may have come about.

[BJ Denning]

Hi Bryan,

Just to say that I think your wildlife images are absolutely gorgeous and it matters not whether taken in a zoo or an aquarium, etc. Oftentimes harder to get a beautiful image because of the surroundings!

Thanks Christina.

My comment is with respect to wildlife competitions (when defined as non-captive/baited etc) and also my personal ethics/values. I fell in love with an image of a frog seemingly holding a leaf as an umbrella to shield itself from the rain. Later I learned that many photographers stage such such shots with live critters/insects gluing them into amusing positions for the sake of photograph. I can't even look at an image of a frog anymore without thinking how it may have come about.

I couldn't agree more. Gluing a living animal just for a photo is horrible and it is not a large step from animal cruelty to being a danger to people. I would hope that once things like that come out, those responsible are prosecuted. I would also agree that those with questionable ethic, who misrepresent the context of images, should be disqualified/banned. That is no better than stealing an image and saying you made it.

However, whether it is the WWP, BBC, or National Geographic, a beautiful photo is a beautiful photo. The context and adventure of achieving the photo may add breadth. Discounting a shot of an amur leopard made in a zoo because it is captive (as long as it is not misrepresented) is wrong as well. Many don't have the opportunity/funds/time/ability to travel to Russia. And if that once in a life time trip does happen, the worse snapshot you ever took quickly becomes one of your most treasured pictures.