What is duty of care?

We don’t often talk about the importance of duty of care with photography, but after #metoo, we heard a lot of allegations against some small and some major photographers both locally and internationally.

When I first started this discussion, I debated whether to talk about it, whether it was really something I could do justice.

But I’m imperfect, and I feel like this is a starting point for an important and evolving conversation for an industry that often tries to sell sex and innocence at the same time. That can often be considered manipulative, misogynistic and vain.

It’s an industry I love, but it has its issues, and we can only improve them by talking openly.

Duty of care really is just about having a form as part of your call sheet, or brief that says “hey, we care about your wellbeing, and here’s our guide for acceptable behaviour on set”.

In my own words I have been including this for a few months, but it’ll grow I’m sure:

Duty of Care

This may seem like an unsual element to include, but I do believe it’s super important, and I want to help set a precedent with everyone I work with on how test shoots should be managed from a photographers perspective. 

If there’s a shot you’re not comfortable, a look or clothes you don’t want to wear, or generally you have a bad feeling, or you feel something is wrong. Please let me, the make up artist, studio manager or call your agent. You can always walk off set if something isn’t right. 

My biggest rule is you walk away from a shoot feeling good about the work. Shoots are a collaborative effort. You are always welcome to bring a friend, parent or guardian, and they are welcome to be on set at all times. There will always be a private space for changing, a bathroom, as well as food and water can be provided. I have included this as there needs to be a precedent set around how shoots are managed, within the photographic industry, and any and all toxic behaviour needs to go.

In my time as an assistant and a photographer over 10 years, I’ve signed two duty of care forms. Which is quite alarming considering the volume and body of work I’ve done.

This is a dialogue, and if you feel that you wanna talk more, jump on my instagram, or email me.

Anyway, it’s important.

O.