The IMAGO International Federation of Cinematographers
Code of Communication Ethics
The IMAGO International Federation of Cinematographers strives to create and maintain a communication environment in which people are treated with dignity, decency and respect. The environment of the IMAGO should be characterized by mutual trust and the absence of intimidation and oppression. Federation will not tolerate unlawful discrimination or harassment of any kind. Through enforcement of this policy and by reaction of the IMAGO Administration and the Board, The IMAGO will seek to prevent, correct and discipline behaviour that violates this policy.
All members, regardless of their positions, are covered by and are expected to comply with this policy and to take appropriate measures to ensure that prohibited conduct does not occur. Appropriate action will be taken against any members who violates this policy.
1. Be inclusive.
The IMAGO welcomes and supports cinematographers of all backgrounds and identities. This includes, but is not limited to members of any sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, race, ethnicity, culture, national origin, social and economic class, educational level, colour, immigration status, sex, age, size, family status, political belief, religion, and mental and physical ability.
2. Be considerate.
We all depend on each other to establish the best conditions we can as an inclusive International Federation, as professional community.
3. Be respectful.
We won’t all agree all the time, but disagreement is no excuse for disrespectful behaviour. We may all experience frustration from time to time, but we cannot allow that frustration to become personal attacks. An environment where people feel uncomfortable or threatened is not a productive or creative one.
4. Conduct yourself professionally.
Always choose your words or actions carefully. Be kind to others. Do not insult or put down others. Harassment and exclusionary behaviour aren’t acceptable.
This includes, but is not limited to:
- Threats of violence and bullying.
- Discriminatory jokes and language.
- Sharing inappropriate or unsolicited sexually explicit or violent material via electronic devices or other means.
- Personal insults of any kind.
In general, if someone asks you to stop doing something inappropriate, then, please, stop.
5. Language matters.
Use gender neutral language. For example Cinematographer and Director of Photography are gender neutral.
Be mindful – Swearing or culturally inappropriate language may cause offence.
6. Make differences into strengths.
We can find strength in diversity. Different cinematographers have different perspectives on issues, and that can be valuable for solving problems or generating new ideas. Being unable to understand why someone holds a viewpoint doesn’t mean that they’re wrong. Don’t forget that we all make mistakes. Focus on resolving issues and learning from mistakes.
7. Be pro-active as an Ethical Bystander.
If you observe harassment, disrespectful or bullying behaviour towards another, you have a duty of care to act. Do not ignore it. Show you don’t condone it.
Be proactive, speak up immediately or seek appropriate intervention.
Ignoring the behaviour could be seen as silent approval. Don’t underestimate your impact as a bystander.
Inaction is not action. Speak Up!
8. HARASSMENT & BULLYING POLICY .
The IMAGO International Federation of cinematographers prohibits harassment and bullying of any kind, and will take appropriate and immediate action in response to complaints or knowledge of violations of this policy.
Bullying is anti-social behaviour and affects everyone; it is unacceptable. We are committed to providing a caring, friendly and safe environment for all of the IMAGO members so they can appreciate a relaxed and secure atmosphere. If bullying does occur, all members should be able to tell and know that incidents will be dealt with promptly and effectively.
The IMAGO Administrations & the IMAGO Board
Brussels, 23.09.2021
