In the Professional Photography Business Network (PPBN) each member and supplier is expected to represent themselves in the highest levels of professionalism, honesty, and integrity in all relationships with colleagues, clients and the general public.
Respect for subjects’ dignity and privacy: A professional photographer should always respect the privacy and dignity of their subjects, especially in sensitive situations. They should obtain informed consent from their subjects before taking any photographs.
Professionalism: A professional photographer should conduct themselves with the highest level of professionalism. This includes dressing appropriately, arriving on time, and being respectful to clients and colleagues.
Honesty and integrity: A professional photographer should be honest and transparent in their dealings with clients and colleagues. They should never manipulate or deceive their clients or misrepresent their work.
Respect for copyright laws: A professional photographer should always respect copyright laws and ensure that they have the necessary permissions to use and distribute their work.
Quality and consistency: A professional photographer should consistently deliver high-quality work that meets or exceeds their clients’ expectations.
Professional development: A professional photographer should continuously improve their skills and knowledge through ongoing education and training.
Environmental responsibility: A professional photographer should be mindful of their impact on the environment and take steps to minimize their carbon footprint.
Respect for diversity: A professional photographer should respect and celebrate diversity in all its forms, including ethnicity, gender, age, religion, and sexual orientation.
Fair business practices: A professional photographer should conduct their business in a fair and transparent manner, with clear contracts and pricing.
Respect for the law: A professional photographer should always comply with local, state, and federal laws, including those related to taxes, permits, and licensing.
- Competition: Photographers in your area, cheaper photographers offering the same product and running the same promotions are not a breach of the code of ethics… That’s just business.
Have a Complaint?
Ethics complaints may only be filed against current members of PPBN. When the committee receives the notification of potential violations of the Code of Ethics, it conducts preliminary investigations and due process hearings on those matters and looks to find a resolution asap.
Please contact PPBN’s Business Office via email on [email protected] with the following information.
- Your name, email and phone number
- The company details subject to the complaint
- Your reason for filing a complaint or flagging a situation (in detail)
- How has the company responded to your complaint and has anything be done to resolve it?
- How would you like the complaint resolved/rectified?
- Attach any supporting images, documents or information
The Complaints Process:
- The above information will be assessed
- The PPBN will be in contact with both parties to hear both sides of the complaint
- The PPBN will work with both parties to find a mutual solution.
- The PPBN is not responsible for any cost in the end decision made
The Outcome for PPBN members:
- No outcome is required
- Warning. The photographer is seen to have broken the code of ethics and depending on the severity is placed on warning. With one more complaint and they will be removed from the PPBN
- Suspended. The photographer is seen to have broken the code of ethics in a huge way and is removed from the PPBN effective immediately. For a period of 24 months.
