In a world of instant gratification, cell phone cameras have come a long way. Many cell phone cameras have dozens of pixels and robust editing tools. Sharing pictures is easier than ever with social media, texting, and the like. This ease of clicking and sharing opens the door to a host of dynamics about responsibility, safety, truth and respect.

Portrait of a child dressed as a pumpkin

It is not uncommon today to pull up to a trailhead or visit a local park that is a known photography hot spot and find that the trash bins are overflowing, or the ground is littered with confetti, glitter, or other small bits of trash.

Creating art as a photographer with models can be highly rewarding, but responsible photography hinges upon building healthy relationships with models and honoring their humanity. The basics of clearly communicating, practicing consent, and considering other factors for models provides a foundation of ethical practices with model photography.