Belgium, September 7th 2024
Open Letter to Mr. Hari Arčon, President of the Slovenian Kennel Club Regarding Photography Regulations at the FCI European Dog Show 2024
Dear Mr. Arčon,
We are writing to you on behalf of the World Dog Press Association (WDPA) and the global community of dog photographers, breeders, exhibitors, and enthusiasts. Our purpose is to express deep concerns about the recent decisions surrounding photography accreditation for the FCI European Dog Show 2024 in Celje, Slovenia, and to offer our proactive support in resolving this matter.
Despite efforts by Mak Dodan, WDPA President, and Karl Donvil, WDPA CEO, to explore potential collaboration with the Slovenian Kennel Club during the EDS in Denmark, WDS in Zagreb, and a later show in Slovenia, we were unable to reach a mutual agreement. We extended our usual offer of cooperation, as we do with all EDS and WDS events, to support both the organization and our over 200 members worldwide.
The decision to limit professional photographers to only 50 accredited individuals, combined with the high accreditation fee of 549 Euros (including VAT), creates a significant barrier. Many dedicated professionals, including those representing other FCI member kennel clubs, might be excluded.
According to reports from breeders who have been informed by email, exhibitors will only be permitted to take photos of their own dogs using their phones, with the use of professional cameras being banned. This measure is causing considerable concern and could lead to significant dissatisfaction and unrest among participants, especially as you have to guarantee the exclusive rights to those who bought accreditation.
We believe that requiring journalists and photographers to agree to undisclosed rules, with the possibility of additional regulations being introduced at anytime, is both legally and ethically questionable.
It is also unclear if and who will be allowed into the main ring to take the most published photos of a show, the podium photos.
Dog shows are fundamentally about celebrating the achievements of dogs and their breeders and owners. Photography is not merely an auxiliary service but an essential element that captures these moments, turning them into lifelong memories with the help of Social Media.
Without adequate photographic documentation, the event risks losing a significant aspect of its value.
As, no canine magazine employs permanent journalists any longer, all dog press photographers can’t even cover their costs with work for media only, let alone make a living. Selling photos to private clients has therefore become essential to fund the media coverage of dog shows.
We understand the need for structured management at such a large-scale event. That was the main reason why the World Dog Press Association was founded in 2001 and has since build up respect from the FCI, British Kennel Club and American Kennel Club. Our members are all screened and signed our Code of Ethics that has since been copied by many organizations. Since our start there has never been a complaint and thus no need for a change.
The WDPA firmly believes that the current accreditation process creates a precedent that endangers the future of our sport and our dedicated members. In light of this, we respectfully urge the Slovenian Kennel Club to reconsider the current restrictions and explore more inclusive solutions. The WDPA is ready to offer our support and expertise to collaborate on a revised accreditation process that serves the interests of all stakeholders – organizers, photographers, exhibitors, and dog enthusiasts alike.
We look forward to an open dialogue and are hopeful that, together, we can ensure that the 2024 European Dog Show is remembered for the right reasons: as a celebration of dogs and their achievements, captured by photographers who are passionate about preserving these moments for posterity.
Thank you for your attention and consideration.
Sincerely,
Mak Dodan
WDPA President
Karl Donvil
WDPA Chief Executive Officer
WDPA | Representing Dog Press Worldwide
Doornstraat 6, 3370 Boutersem, BELGIUM
