NOTE: We have a video which offers a review of protocol for Team Leaders and Photographers available for your review. As of February 2022, a new, revised Event Sheet is to be used on TDP Photo-ID Research Surveys. This video addresses the protocol for required completion of these Event Sheets. It is important for Photographers to be aware of the protocol for photographing not only the dolphins, but the data on the Event Sheets. Click on the icon below for the video:
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PHOTOGRAPHERS have the most challenging duty on the survey team. Their task is to take "flat-on" photos of the dolphin's dorsal fin but dolphins don't hold still!!! One can rarely be certain where or when a dolphin will surface. Timing, lighting and distance also present difficulties in obtaining viable fin shots. Photographers are self-equipped with a camera that has a minimum of a 300mm telephoto lens. Film and digital memory cards are provided by The Dolphin Project. Cameras must be set for JPEGS and the frames must begin with "1" or "0001" depending on the numbering of your camera. Quick bursts are permitted but no more than 2-4 shots at a time.
Click here for the Photographers Checklist Occasionally there may be two photographers assigned to one boat. When dolphins are sighted, each photographer should focus on different dolphins. If the boat size or configuration restricts moveability by the photographers, then they could take turns photographing different sighting events. ALL photographs taken by the designated TDP Survey Photographers are the property of The Dolphin Project in accordance with the NMFS Permit. Using these images without authorization could result in the removal of the NMFS Permit. No other photographers, other than the designated survey photographer, are allowed to take photos while ON EFFORT on a TDP survey unless authorized. Candid pictures may be taken by crew members when OFF EFFORT, going to and from the survey zone, at lunch and at the dock. Photos of the Team are encouraged. |
