This doesn’t really apply of course if you’re taking shots of inanimate objects. It is highly unlikely that a tree is going to feel put out because you took your shot when it’s foliage was not at its best - but a person may.

Perhaps you are lurking in the back alleys of a Third World city, or maybe your own, attempting to capture a specific ambiance. You see an old woman in your line of sight looking tired and world weary. All the same, there is something you see in her pose, something noble in her expression, so you shoot it.

Afterwards you can give the images a good color balance in image editing software for your friends to admire. Obviously you derive the pleasure of your efforts - but what did the model get?

Back when I was first taking photos I caught sight of a one legged man on a crutch hobbling towards me along a city street. It was a powerful image, so thinking myself a god with a Canon I boldly took the shot. The subject got very upset - and I immediately saw his point: who wants to be immortalized looking your worst?

I promised myself I would never do that again and threw away the negative when I returned my darkroom. Should I have asked for his OK first? That would not have solved the situation and he most certainly would have said no. The real point was, what was my original intention for taking that shot in the first place? Had I thought about it a little more I probably would have taken my shot from behind and spared his feelings.

Sometimes you take a candid snap and the value of the shot is that the person is unaware of your interest. These photos can be terrific but presenting yourself and your intention ahead of time could spoil the effect. Nevertheless, once you have your shot why not approach the person and ask if you can take another, this time doing the best you can to take a more flattering version. They may never see it, but here, as in many things - it’s the thought that counts.

Another suggestion, often appreciated in poorer countries or areas where the local people have been assaulted photographically on a daily basis by throngs of tourists, is to offer at least some polite financial exchange for the modelling services provided. This is usually appreciated and it’s good for your conscience.

Some other examples: one time I did my own personal photo essay on a school. It wasn’t practical to offer every student and teacher a print but I cut a CD of the best shots and presented it to the principal.

Another time, I shot a dog class and made some small prints of the ten best shots and gave them to the trainer to pass out at the next class.

All this comes under the heading of good manners, and good manners are always appreciated. Additionally if you find you need to go back and re-shoot, you will most likely be welcomed and not run out of town.

Try it.

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