Wildlife photography has grown dramatically but can disturb nesting animals, habituate wildlife to humans, and support practices that harm the animals being photographed.
Wildlife photographers who prioritize the welfare of their subjects use minimum disturbance approaches, avoid known nesting sites during sensitive periods, and decline to share location data for vulnerable species. Drone use near nesting sites can cause nest abandonment and elevated cortisol responses. The practice of baiting with live animals to attract predators for photography causes direct welfare harm and is illegal in many jurisdictions. The demand for impressive photographs creates incentives that photographers must consciously resist when they conflict with animal welfare.