CODE OF ETHICS

The International Association of Professional Birth Photographers Code of Ethics is intended to encourage and preserve the integrity of the birth photography industry.

Professionalism

• I will exhibit professional conduct at all times. This includes interactions with clients, peers, medical professionals, birth team members, support staff, administration and others. I will remember that in each interaction I am the face of the birth photography industry and I represent it as a whole.

• I commit to follow all hospital/birth center rules and regulations.

Honesty

• I will be honest and kind to clients, peers and other birth professionals.

Accountability

• It is an industry standard to ensure that I have backup gear when shooting birth photography.

• I carry appropriate insurance for my business.

• I am accountable to my clients. I abide by our contract in regard to being on call, image delivery and archiving.

Law

• I agree to abide by copyright laws. Copyright infringement is strictly prohibited. This includes both image theft and plagiarism.

• I have the appropriate business license in accordance with local laws and regulations.

• I pay tax in accordance with the local, state, regional and national laws.

• I utilize legal contracts with all clients to protect both my business and my client.

• I do not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, religion, age, disability or other factors.

Respectfulness

• I will show respect for the birth space at all times. This includes respecting the birth choices a family makes, the birth team, care providers, location rules and family members involved.

• I agree that the job of the medical staff is a higher priority than getting a particular photograph.

Confidentiality

• I provide my clients with confidentiality in accordance with our contract at all times. This is particularly important when sharing my presence at a birth as well as images, especially those of intimate nature, on social media. I always make sure I have permission before sharing