Our Ethics

I believe it is possible to run a business and be nice to people and make a positive difference in the world. I wanted to make sure that where possible I was doing as much as I could to use sustainable resources, use local businesses and general act in a more socially responsible way. I like to think that it’s possible to help make a difference in everything I do.

Our suppliers

I have to be realistic – the nature of my work means in some areas I’m dependant on my suppliers. Our suppliers are an important part of our service to you, we ask our suppliers for their position on the environment and ethical practices when we decide to work them.  Where necessary I change suppliers to ones which have an social responsibility statement and work to ethical guidelines.

Recycling

We recycle as much as we can including  packaging and shipping materials. Our laser printer toner cartridges are sent back to the manufacturers for refilling as are our ink-jet cartridges.

Social responsibility

I work with local businesses as much as possible. We believe that working closely with other local businesses does help to provide jobs and opportunities for local people. Before we can change the world, we must start locally.

Micro-loans

Where I can I invest a proportion of the business profits in micro-loan agencies such as Kiva. I believe that by investing some of the money we earn from photography in micro-loans  I can help people in countries such as India, Thailand and other areas where people do not have access to traditional banking facilities. The availability of micro-loans to people who don’t have access to banks can help then start businesses and also reduce risks associated with poverty.

Ethical business practices

As a business, I believe that my business  should act ethically. This means taking an active interest in making our market a fair place to conduct business. Our industry is awash with photographers who pass off other people’s work as their own, are inept at photography and charge a lot of money for a poor quality service. As a wedding photographer my clients are entrusting the recording of their big day – a one time event – to me, and that responsibility is never forgotten.