Statement of Ethics:
I believe that how we create matters as much as what we create. This Ethical Practice statement outlines the principles and commitments that guide my work in photography, teaching, collaboration, and community engagement. It is a living document, open to reflection, growth and revision.
Transparency: I prioritise honesty and self-reflection in my work. I'm transparent about my intentions, motivations, and project goals. I engage in open dialogue, answering questions and using written consent when appropriate. For non-English interactions, I use qualified interpreters to maintain clarity.
Informed and Researched: I commit to thorough research and consultation with local experts to understand the subjects and contexts I photograph. I'm open to new information and willing to adjust my approach accordingly.
Respect and Power Dynamics: I treat everyone with respect and dignity, valuing collaboration over ego. I'm aware of power dynamics and obtain informed consent from subjects. I invite subjects to actively participate in shaping how they are represented, fostering a collaborative environment that prioritises their dignity.
Accountability and Responsibility: I recognise the responsibility that comes with the power of photography and teaching. I am accountable for my actions and their societal impact, responding to mistakes with vulnerability and a willingness to learn. I engage in impact assessments and feedback avenues, managing challenges responsibly and using photography to inspire and effect positive change. I understand that ethical standards are not static and should change as new information becomes available. I commit to responsibly reviewing and adapting my practices to meet the evolving ethical needs of different situations and times. If at any stage I become aware that a project or practice is causing harm, I commit to pausing, reassessing, and adjusting course with transparency and care, prioritising the well-being of those affected over the continuation of the work.
Personal Responsibility and Internal Work:
I recognise that ethical practice begins internally. My commitment to ethical photography and teaching includes a responsibility to continually examine my own biases, motivations, and assumptions. I acknowledge that ignorance, privilege, and unconscious bias can undermine even the best intentions. As part of my professional conduct, I engage in ongoing self-education, self-reflection, and personal accountability to ensure that my work evolves in a way that is not only technically responsible but also emotionally and socially conscious. I believe that true integrity in creative practice is inseparable from the willingness to do the difficult, continuous internal work that ethical engagement requires.
Environmental Responsibility: I am committed to sustainability and environmentally friendly practices in all aspects of my work. This includes using 'Ad Green' principles as a guideline to minimise environmental impact. As a member of the Association of Photographers (AOP), I adhere to their standards and recommendations for sustainable practices. I strive to use eco-friendly materials and processes whenever possible, ensuring that my passion for photography does not come at the expense of our planet.
Professional Conduct and Workplace Ethics: In my interactions with clients and collaborators, I maintain the highest standards of professionalism. I adhere to the UK Copyright Act of 1988, ensuring respect for intellectual property and fair practice. My contracts reflect transparency, fairness, and mutual respect. I advocate for healthy workplace environments and do not tolerate toxicity. I firmly believe in collaboration free from bad actors and negative influences. My approach is to foster respectful, positive, and productive working relationships where every party's contributions are valued and their rights protected.
Business Practices: I am committed to fair, transparent, and sustainable pricing that reflects the value of my work while considering market dynamics. My approach ensures that collectors and clients always have a clear understanding of what they are purchasing. I maintain transparent, upfront pricing for services, including mentorship, workshops, and commissions, reflecting the expertise, time, and resources involved. Payment plans are available where appropriate, making my work and services more financially manageable. To ensure ongoing dialogue and improvement, I provide opportunities for students and mentees to share feedback, allowing them to share their experiences either anonymously or by name. I conscientiously review this feedback and incorporate reflections and changes when necessary.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Practices:
I am committed to transparency and responsibility when using AI in my practice. I do not use AI to fabricate images or to simulate realities that mislead viewers about the origins or authenticity of my work. Where AI tools are employed (for example, in minor workflow assistance such as metadata sorting or administrative tasks), I am transparent about their use. I recognise the ethical complexities AI introduces, particularly concerning authorship, consent, representation, and labour. I actively review and update my practices to align with ethical standards that respect human creativity, dignity, and rights.
Print Editioning Ethics: I currently offer only open editions, ensuring full transparency and avoiding the complexities and pitfalls of limited editioning. I believe this approach is the most suitable and practical for my work at this stage. It allows collectors to purchase prints with clarity and confidence, knowing exactly what they are investing in. Each open edition print comes with provenance marks, such as signatures and Certificates of Authenticity (COAs), available upon request. I stand by the value of my open editions and do not consider them lesser than limited editions. I do not engage in artificial scarcity or speculative pricing. My pricing reflects what I consider fair at this time, based on the current value of my work. If that value changes over time, it does so naturally, independent of any attempt to manipulate perception or demand. My focus remains on creating meaningful work and ensuring that collectors and clients can engage with it in a straightforward and transparent manner.
Awareness, Inclusivity, and Community Support: In addition to my professional commitments, I am deeply aware of and actively address issues of feminism, equality, and the ongoing challenges of misogyny, racism, and prejudice in our society. I recognise that ignorance sustains these injustices, and I take personal responsibility for educating myself rather than relying on those affected to do the labour of explanation. It is the responsibility of each individual to seek understanding and promote inclusivity. My work and interactions reflect this commitment to awareness and meaningful action. As part of this, I offer a bursary program to support individuals who face financial barriers to learning. This bursary can cover part or all costs for workshops, private tuition, and mentorship, ensuring that access to education is not limited by financial means. I believe that knowledge and artistic growth should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances.
