How can a macro photographer signal from a distance that they’re fine and just shooting?
Asked 11/29/2020
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My wife often does macro or close-up nature photography alone, sometimes lying very still in grass or woodland for long periods while photographing flowers, fungi, insects, or other skittish subjects. Passersby occasionally approach because they think she may be injured or need help.
What’s a practical way to let people know, from a distance, that she’s okay and simply taking photos? Ideally the solution should be lightweight, easy to carry, and not require noise or movement that could disturb wildlife.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
5y ago
2 Answers
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While this is a rare instance of need, it's a shame there isn't a photographic equivalent of the red field with white diagonal stripe "diver down" flag, or the more internationally-recognized blue-and-white "Alpha" flag.
Perhaps she could fashion her own "photographer in action" sign, with a combination of symbols for instant recognition (a finger in front of lips, meaning "shhhh"/quiet, and a camera), with words saying a photographer is trying to shoot skittish wildlife closeup, staying still and quiet. That should be enough for people to leave her alone. A couple of those signs placed 10–50 yards away, from the most anticipated approach locations, should be enough to at least reduce the amount of well-intended interlopers.
The sign probably only needs to be about 20" by 15", maybe smaller. It can be foldable, or depending on you or your wife's craftiness, could be rollable, or even printed on fabric or lightweight tent material.
The support could be a telescoping pole for easy transport, or perhaps a lightweight inexpensive tripod for easy setup.
Originally by user11924. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user11924
5y ago
0
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A simple visible identifier is the best fit here. Based on the suggestions, the most practical options are:
- a small lightweight sign placed where people are likely to approach, with clear wording such as “photographer at work” or “taking macro/wildlife photos — okay, please don’t disturb”
- clothing with large text on the back, such as a shirt, hoodie, or jacket saying “macro photographer at work” or similar
- a distinctive blanket or ground cover that makes it more obvious she is intentionally set up rather than collapsed
If using a sign, keep it short and readable from a distance, and consider adding simple symbols like a camera icon and a “quiet” cue. Placing one or two signs near likely approach paths would help more than having something only beside her.
There isn’t a standard universal signal for this, so clarity matters more than cleverness. A lightweight sign or clearly labeled clothing is likely the least intrusive, most portable way to reassure people without making noise or disturbing the subject.
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