How conservation photography inspires change

What is conservation photography?

Conservation photography is a form of visual storytelling that aims to raise awareness of environmental issues such as habitat loss, pollution, or climate change. Conservation photography, a genre that blends visual storytelling with purpose, goes beyond traditional wildlife or nature photography, seeking to educate and connect with audiences, influence policies, and inspire individuals to act.  

Conservation photographers are more than observers. They are active participants in environmental advocacy and should always be working in collaboration - whether that’s with a partner, an organisation, a group or even with a place. 

Photography as a bridge between science and storytelling

Conservation photography is often viewed as the bridge between science and art. Photographers play a key role in using their creativity as artists to illuminate scientific stories and make research accessible and compelling to the public. Stunning still and moving image work brings scientific data to life, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of ecological issues. 

Whether capturing the effects of deforestation on local communities or showcasing the resilience of marine ecosystems, these images serve as crucial tools for conservation campaigns, funding proposals, and policy discussions. The most impactful conservation photography is not just visually striking - it carries a message that makes the viewer sit up and listen. 

How conservation photography supports advocacy campaigns

Conservation photographers don’t just need the skills to make powerful still or moving images, they need to be storytellers who can create compelling narratives that connect with audiences and drive real-world action. 

Photographers often collaborate with conservation organisations, NGOs, and scientific institutions to create impactful campaigns. Students on our Marine & Natural History Photography degree are encouraged to connect with local partners or conservation organisations, developing projects with real impact. Recent student work has explored the potential of seaweed as a plastic alternative - just one example of how photography can support environmental innovation.

The rise of digital platforms and social media has also provided new opportunities for photographers to share their work and reach global audiences without relying on traditional media outlets. Viral images of deforestation, ocean pollution, or endangered species have the power to ignite global discussions and spark meaningful change.

Ethics in conservation photography

With the power of photography comes ethical responsibility. Conservation photographers must ensure that their work does not harm the very subjects they seek to protect. Ethical storytelling requires respect for wildlife, local communities, and the truthfulness of the narrative being portrayed. 

Patience and respect are key to ethical storytelling. Conservation photographers must avoid disturbing animals or interfering with their natural habitat. The goal is to document, not disrupt. Similarly, when photographing or filming people, building trust and engaging with the community are essential. Ethical conservation photographers seek permission, provide context, and ensure that their images contribute positively to the people and places they document. 

Another aspect of ethical conservation photography is sustainability. Falmouth University encourages students to adopt environmentally friendly practices, such as using second-hand cameras, sustainable printing methods, and chemical-free film processing. The goal is to minimise the ecological footprint of photographic work while maintaining high-quality storytelling.

How Falmouth University teaches conservation photography

Falmouth University’s Marine & Natural History Photography BA(Hons) course provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to become talented conservation photographers and filmmakers. The degree emphasises real-world collaborations, ethical storytelling, and sustainable photographic practices.

Our students are encouraged to critically examine the impact of their work by asking key questions: Who is the target audience? Who are we making this film for? What outcome do we hope to achieve? Is the goal to inspire a change in behaviour, shift perceptions, or evoke a deeper emotional response? By considering these questions, students can craft stories that are both meaningful and impactful. 

One of the course’s strengths is its focus on hands-on experience. From day one, students are encouraged to work outside of the studio and immerse themselves within the natural landscape. They learn how to communicate their passion for a cause and connect with local partners and the wider community. For example, a Falmouth University student has recently collaborated with ARC Marine, a sustainable marine construction company, to photograph reef cubes, a building material designed to enhance marine biodiversity. These collaborative projects not only build students’ portfolios and strengthen their communication skills but also contribute meaningful visual content to conservation initiatives.

The course also integrates guest lectures from leading conservation photographers and filmmakers who discuss the importance of decolonising conservation storytelling and empowering local communities to share their own narratives. This year’s speakers include Erica Rugabandana, a Tanzanian director and cinematographer whose film, 'Living with Lions' gained international acclaim. Another guest speaker is Nyal Mueenuddin, a Pakistani-American filmmaker and conservationist, whose documentary 'When the Floods Came' highlights the impact of climate change on communities living along the River Indus in Pakistan.

The future of conservation photography 

The field of conservation photography is evolving. Historically, major publications like National Geographic dominated the industry, often employing western photographers to document foreign cultures and landscapes. Parashoot journalism, where photographers briefly visit a country, extract a story, and leave is increasingly viewed as unethical, with echoes of our colonial past.  

There is now a shift towards local storytelling, with greater emphasis on local photographers documenting their own communities. The colonial-era fascination with the “exotic” is gradually giving way to a renewed appreciation for the wildlife and ecosystems on our doorstep, alongside the realisation that many of our native species are severely under threat. A landmark example of this shift is the BBC’s 'Wild Isles' (2023), the first documentary series dedicated entirely to wildlife conservation in the British Isles. This change in perspective reflects a broader movement towards ethical, inclusive, and decolonised storytelling.  

For those seeking to work abroad, true conservation photography requires long-term engagement, collaboration, and respect for local perspectives. Our students are encouraged to embed themselves in the communities they document, working alongside local photographers, filmmakers, and conservationists. Any collaboration should be mutually beneficial; for instance, sharing camera equipment or technical skills can create an exchange of knowledge while ensuring that local voices are empowered in the storytelling process. 

Today’s conservation photographers must be strong communicators as well as skilled image-makers. The ability to navigate complex environmental issues, engage with scientific research, and work collaboratively with conservation organisations is crucial.

At Falmouth University, students are trained to not only make powerful still and moving images but also to engage deeply with conservation issues. Through collaboration, ethical responsibility, and sustainability, they are equipped to make a lasting impact in the field. 

Lead image from the series 'The Pangolin Man' by Ellie Stones.