ABOUT THE PROJECT
FotoNet is a community atlas and archive of nature
FotoNet was founded in 2003 as a community project for people who want to preserve and share high-quality photographs while also caring about the correct identification of species. We are not a classic “encyclopedia” or a “like-based” photo portal. We combine the best of all worlds: photography + taxonomy + context.
What matters to us
- Quality of photographs – both technically and in content, with an emphasis on the natural environment.
- Correct identification – accuracy matters; when identification is uncertain, we look for consensus.
- Atlas and mapping – we are building a species atlas and gradually also distribution maps.
- Usefulness for the future – we want the data and photographs to still make sense in 10–20 years.
Expert cooperation
The project is community-based, but with identifications and scientific questions we are also helped by experts in the natural sciences – including collaborators from the Slovak Academy of Sciences and other institutions. That is why it is important for us to respect taxonomic rules and handle data responsibly.
What FotoNet is not
- We are not a social network built around “likes”.
- We are not a random collection of photos without structure.
- We are not an encyclopedia trying to cover everything at any cost.
What we are building
We are building a unique place where photography meets taxonomy – with a strong focus on clarity, correct placement in the atlas, quality metadata (date, locality, additional details), and gradual occurrence mapping. The goal is simple: to preserve information and experience for future generations.
FotoNet Instagram
We regularly share selected photographs from FotoNet on Instagram as well – including the Photo of the Week and other outstanding shots from the community.
Join the community
FotoNet is built by people who want to do things properly – quality photography, correct species identification, and responsibly completed data. If this approach is close to you, we will be glad if you join us. 🙂
After registration, you can comment, join discussions in the forum, follow activity through notifications, and depending on your permission level, also add your own photographs to galleries and the atlas.