hartflicker feels that the development of an ethical standpoint is essential in the undertaking of any creative endeavour. It is by establishing ethical protocols that hartflicker can commit to a critical and methodical exploration of the topic or subject matter at hand, and foster open relationships between the producers and participants. Far from being a limitation, the choices that are the result of ethical decisions can shape a film or video in unpredicatable but often exciting ways.

Primarily, hartflicker is commited to producing programming which, on balance of the benefits and disadvantages, is non-discriminatory and does not unduly harm individuals, the community or the environment. This includes the creation of advertising or endorsements of products or services that are not in the interest of 'common good'. hartflicker defines 'common good' as conditions that are of equal benefit to everyone and everything.

Furthermore, hartflicker understands that all parties have moral rights. In most cases, hartflicker retains copyright over projects created by it, whereas in other cases, where the projects are collaborative and produced in the best interest of the community, projects are labeled as copyleft. Please see our page on intellectual property for more information.

In terms of the moral rights of individuals, hartflicker believes that communication is key to gaining consent and access to the stories and lives of talent and participants, as well as establishing boundaries of privacy and anonymity. As such, hartflicker has a 6-point ethical procedure when dealing with individuals during the production of video and film projects:

1. The participant clearly understands the nature of the documentary or narative film project, and has been given an opportunity to discuss the project with the producer prior to the commencement of the recording;
2. The participant grants permission for the producer to record his or her voice and image onto photographs, film and/or videotape;
3. The participant understands that his or her voice and image may be arranged for aesthetic and narrative effect;
5. In the case of a documentary film where participation is voluntary, the participant may withdraw at any time without comment or penalty; and,
6. That any further enquires can be made to producer at hartflicker.

In the case of participants under the age of 18, the producer must be able to explain the above to the child's parent or legal guardian before filming can proceed.