I am NGUYEN AN DI, International Photography Judge and PSA Membership Development Director for Vietnam.
Regarding ethics in wildlife photography (e.g., baiting, staging), I understand that every photographer has their own technical choices and personal purposes. I choose not to comment on these individual choices.
However, when it comes to prestigious international photo competitions, the regulations are crystal clear: In the Nature/Wildlife photography rules of major organizations such as FIAP, PSA, or IAAP, the use of live bait (baiting) is strictly prohibited. This is because it seriously violates animal welfare principles and the integrity of the craft.
I provided a detailed Q&A on this matter in the Khanh Hoa Photography Association’s private Zalo group a few days ago—well before the news broke regarding the revocation of the First Prize for the red-tailed green pit viper photo. I affirm that my sharing is not “jumping on a trend,” but stems from a deep concern for international professional standards.
Recognizing that this topic is of great interest and is being vibrantly discussed by many photographers, today I am officially publishing the full analysis from that private group to facilitate a broader discussion.
OFFICIAL VERDICT: ETHICAL STANDARDS IN WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY
JUDGE’S DECISION: DISQUALIFIED
Thank you everyone for participating in the discussion regarding the eligibility of the “Kingfisher Hunting Underwater” photograph. This is a challenging question that delves into the core ethical principles of wildlife photography. From an international judge’s perspective, this photo would be disqualified immediately during the screening round for violating two fundamental principles: Authenticity and Animal Welfare.
1. PRIMARY REASONS BASED ON INTERNATIONAL REGULATIONS (FIAP/PSA)
A. Violated Core Principles:
Animal Welfare Principle: The most fundamental rule in all FIAP/PSA-patronaged competitions is: “The welfare of the living creature is more important than any photograph.”
Prohibition of Interference and Staging: Regulations explicitly state: “Practices such as using live bait to lure subjects and the control of living creatures (such as staging in a glass tank) are highly unethical and not permitted.”
Requirement for Authenticity: A Nature photograph must convey the truth of the scene captured. A well-informed person should feel that the photograph is presented truthfully and that no unethical practices were used to control the subject or capture the image.
B. Grounds for Judicial Suspicion (Why the photo is disqualified): When reviewing such a photograph, any experienced judge would harbor serious suspicions due to:
Environment: Water that is too clear, an overly pristine background, unnaturally focused lighting, and perfectly spherical air bubbles are telltale signs of a controlled environment (such as a glass tank).
Behavior: Placing bait in a fixed, narrow area forces the kingfisher’s hunting behavior to be controlled and altered by human intervention, stripping away its natural wild essence.
Judge’s Conclusion: Even if this photo were “genuine” (not staged), it would still be disqualified or given a very low score because there are too many red flags suggesting unethical behavior used to control the subject and compromise the welfare of the live prey.
Thank you!
NGUYEN AN DI – PSA, E IAAP, AFIP, IIG/s, AAPS, H.GNG
FPC Vietnam Representative
PSA Country Membership Director for Vietnam
IAAP Ambassador
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