Photography

Photography plays a major role in crafting the impression the outside world has of Elon University. In short, photos often convey what words cannot. With the proliferation of images across digital media such as websites, social channels and advertising, it’s very important to use photography in a manner that supports our brand platform. Please see the information below for best practices and examples.

Rights and Permissions

If you reproduce a photo from a website or publication, there is no way to be sure that the appropriate permissions have been obtained. In general, photos are copyrighted whether or not they carry a copyright notice. This legal protection includes photos in web pages and electronically reproduced documents.

When photographs are taken of a an educational, theatrical or other performance, the creator of the presentation generally owns or has permission to use the copyright in the expression of the artistic or educational work itself. In these situations, it is wise to obtain the written consent of the creators of the presentation. Be sure to obtain written permission from the copyright holder, and from any person whose image is identifiable in the picture, and be aware that there may be required permission fees.

Generally speaking, it is not necessary to obtain the consent of the subject(s) of a photograph or video if it was taken in the context of the individual(s) being in public at the time the photograph was taken. For instance, photographs taken of people at an awards ceremony that is open to the public or walking down the street can be used without written consent.

In some circumstances, it may be an invasion of privacy to use photographs of an individual without permission. These include invasion of the personal privacy of an individual and unauthorized use of the image of a public figure for commercial purposes. If a person is photographed in a private situation without their knowledge or consent, and if those photographs are disseminated, it can constitute an invasion of privacy. If an individual has a “public image,” and if a picture of that person is used without consent for financial gain or business enterprise, such use may be legally prohibited. If you have questions about usage of specific imagery, please consult with the Office of University Communications or the university attorney.

Photography and Paid Advertising

In general, it is not permissible to use a person’s image in paid advertising (print, broadcast, outdoor, digital, etc.) without obtaining that person’s written consent. The Office of University Communications has a photo release form that can be used if photography is intended to be used in paid advertising. NOTE: Photography of minors usually requires the written consent of the parent or guardian. Please contact our office at brand@elon.edu to obtain a copy of the form.

Photography Libraries

Among the collections of Elon images available to use, there are two libraries that are considered “official” photography resources for use on our communications channels and marketing media. These images may be downloaded and used in Elon University publications, websites and other materials without obtaining additional permissions.

Flickr Library

This is the best starting place if you’re casually looking for images or would like a self-service resource where you can download high-res images directly. All the images housed on our Flickr account are approved for use in official Elon marketing and communications. These images can be used by university staff, faculty, students or vendors/partners of the university without needing to secure additional usage or permissions.

PhotoShelter Library

As an extension of the university’s brand toolkit, employees can request access to a curated collection of Elon photos via our digital photo management system, PhotoShelter. This collection includes images of various campus buildings, nature and scenery, major university events and depictions of students in day-to-day activities. Employees can download photos as-is or can crop and download copies as needed for use in official Elon University communications and publications. Keep this in mind when requesting access. For questions or to learn more, please contact Ben Watters, director of multimedia marketing, at bwatters@elon.edu.

 

Photography Best Practices

Listed below are some general guidelines to follow when using photography from the university libraries. The Office of University Communications is available to consult on photography needs.

Be Relevant and Timely

Always use imagery that feels current. For instance, unless the topic is the COVID pandemic, avoid photography that prominently features masks or social distancing. Below, the image on the right would be preferred over the image on the left.

  • Elon students wearing masks help move boxes into a residence hall during new student move-in.
  • Students carry boxes and belongings up the steps of a residence hall during move-in day on campus.

Showcase Our Community Authentically

Elon is proud of the range of backgrounds represented by our students, faculty and staff. Make sure that comes through authentically in your photo selections, especially if you are using multiple photos.

  • Students and staff laugh and enjoy a Mardi Gras-themed seafood boil with corn, potatoes and crawfish in a lively dining hall.
  • Three students pose and smile in front of twinkling holiday lights during Elon’s Festival of Lights celebration.

Find the Right Tone

Image tonality can range from aspirational/hopeful to introspective and solemn. Always make sure the image tone matches the written messaging.

  • Students relax on the grass and watch colorful fireworks light up the night sky during a campus event.
  • A student in a red dress kneels onstage while a professional actress, holding a microphone, speaks to her during a theater rehearsal or workshop.
  • A student studies quietly at a desk in the library, working on a laptop with soft light filtering through the blinds.
  • Elon fans cheer enthusiastically from the stands, waving pom-poms during a home football game.

Use a Mix of Facilities and Faces

Elon has a beautiful campus, but the core of our community is the people that come here to learn, work and grow. Don’t rely solely on images of beautiful historic buildings or our picturesque campus scenes in marketing communications. At the same time, images that focus too heavily on people paint an incomplete picture that lacks a sense of place. Try to find the right balance of both. The images below offer just enough visual cues to give the audience a sense of what our campus looks like without the campus itself being the main subject of the image.

  • Two students sit on a bench outside a brick academic building, talking and smiling on a sunny day.
  • Two people sit on a brick ledge near Elon’s campus lawns, talking on a sunny day.

Help the Audience Focus

Imagery is much more effective when the subject is focused and clear. Both of the photos below are from an Elon commencement ceremony, but the one on the right does a better job of conveying a relatable emotion. Closer focus on a small number of subjects can help the viewer be more engaged with an image.

  • Graduating students in maroon caps and gowns gather together, smiling and cheering during Elon’s Commencement ceremony.
  • Elon graduates in maroon caps and gowns celebrate after the ceremony, smiling and waving as they walk to the venue.