Global warming has threatened life on our planet for many decades and in today’s more energy-driven world, the effect can only be slated to grow. However, this isn’t something that is out of our control. Everyone can do their part to reduce their individual carbon footprint. 

In this post, our goal is to help photographers know how they can do so. If you are one responsible professional boudoir photographer, use this guide to take part in this pro-environment initiative.

What Is A Carbon Footprint?

The World Health Organization (WHO) describes carbon footprint as the measure of how all our activities contribute to the overall carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. This is done through burning fossil fuels and is measured in tonnes (weight).

People usually think of the top carbon-intensive sectors, including the commercial and residential, energy, industrial, transportation, and agricultural industries. But the truth is, every single individual contributes to the number of greenhouse gases produced to support our activities and lifestyle. 

Take your consumption and production of food, transportation, fuels and other materials, for example, and sum them all up! These all make up your individual carbon footprint. 

This is very difficult to calculate and trace making it even harder to come up with tangible solutions to the problem. Then again, we are all part of the solution. Photographers will learn in this post just how they can offer help.

Ways Photographers Can Reduce Carbon Footprint

Use Rechargeable Batteries

There’s a reason why rechargeable batteries are now widely available. Using them for your flashlights or camera will certainly reduce your carbon footprint as they are a huge source of it. Aside from being a more environment-friendly option, rechargeable batteries lose less than 2% of their energy when stored for a month. Thus, it is both a responsible and wiser option to invest in them for your portable photography equipment.

Choose LED Lights

If you’ve been a photographer for a long time and have not yet switched to LED lights, you are missing out on a lot of good things! First off, they use much less energy than their incandescent counterparts while producing the same intensity of light. And it is for the same reason they can last 50 times longer! They are also less susceptible to damage caused by shaking or vibrations, are easier to recycle, and are super cool to touch. 

For professional photographers, multi-colored LED lights are a great option. With this, you can adjust the color temperature to achieve your desired balance without needing additional lighting systems. If you’re looking for a more energy-efficient option, don’t forget the natural light from the sun!

Replace Lenses And Equipment Only When Necessary

Some photographers buy lenses and cameras on impulse just because of fashion trends. I mean, who wouldn’t like upgraded and faster devices, right? It’s certainly tempting. But, this is something you have to think twice about because the truth is; this popularity is short-lived. Your old camera and gears may just be able to do the same job and they just get dumped on your shelf. Make the wiser choice of only making these investments when absolutely needed.

Buy From Environment-Friendly Brands

Another great way to reduce your carbon footprint as a photographer is to become intentional with your purchases. Buy from manufacturers with eco-friendly products that abide by environmental regulations. Canon, for example, has been very committed to its Corporate Social Responsibility initiative. They strive for social change as with many other carbon-neutral companies who use recycling as an equalizer. You only need to do your due diligence to research as a responsible photographer.

Don’t Throw Old Equipment

As your camera or gears age, you may think about just throwing them or stacking them to your shelf. You may not know it but your fellow photographers might still be able to use your equipment. Consider donating or selling them to others, especially if they’re still in good condition.

Your area might have a camera club that accepts donated old cameras and gear. You might also find newbie photographers who could be looking for hand-me-downs. There are so many possibilities. Even when your equipment is already defective or damaged, it can still be put to good use in recycling facilities for e-waste.

Unplug Devices When Not Charging

Ever heard of ‘Vampire Power’? It’s when electric power leaks from your equipment and appliances even when they’re on standby or are switched off. This drains billions of dollars of energy every year! So when your device isn’t charging but it is plugged into a socket, disconnect it as this can still contribute to your carbon footprint as a photographer.

Final Thoughts

So there you go! Every photographer lives a trail of carbon footprint just considering the usual things you do and the stuff you use. But really, everyone is a culprit. To help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, we should each take responsibility and action. Start to trace your tracks as a photographer, see what you can improve doing, and make small conscious choices.