To identify bottlenose dolphins we use the nicks and notches that dolphins accumulate along the trailing edge of their dorsal fins, as well as the dorsal fin shape and more temporary natural marks such as rake marks and skin lesions. However, we can only do this from good or excellent quality photographs. Check out what makes a good photo-ID picture below.
Is the dorsal fin visible?
Excellent
Fin entirely visible
Good
Trailing edge still visible
Good
Some water on fin
Poor
Fin is completely obscured
Poor
No dorsal fin!
How close is the animal?
Excellent
Fin size is big in the frame
Excellent
Fin size is big in the frame
Good
Fin size is large enough
Good
Fin size is large enough
Poor
Fin is too small
Is the image in focus?
Excellent
Trailing edge is sharp
Excellent
Trailing edge is sharp
Good
Trailing edge is a bit grainy
Poor
Trailing edge is out of focus
Poor
Trailing edge is out of focus
Is the animal at a right-angle to you?
Excellent
Animal is at a right-angle
Excellent
Animal is not quite at a right-angle
Good
Animal is not quite at a right-angle
Poor
Animal is not at a right-angle
Poor
Animal is not at a right-angle
Is the lighting ok?
Excellent
Dorsal fin is clearly lit
Excellent
Dorsal fin is clearly lit
Good
Fin is dark but trailing edge is visible in silhouette
Good
All a bit dull but trailing edge silhouette is clear
