Photography and Videography Policies, Procedures, and Requests
The University Marcom Group has the following strategic objectives on behalf of the university:
- Enhance, expand, and protect the UMass brand to benefit all of UMass Amherst
- Increase the number and quality of applicants
- Increase alumni loyalty and engagement
- Support campus commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
Recognizing that resources are limited, the University Marcom Group prioritizes photography that supports one or more of the objectives above.
Additional criteria for considering requests include:
- The university’s publications or communications channels that will publish these images
- The audience(s) for this photography (e.g., internal or external)
Photography Access
You can access images using the UMass stock photography website. You may also fill out our form for additional image searches and sharing galleries. Please allow at least three business days for research time.
Marketing and Event Photography
Event photography is also typically beyond the scope of Marcom. If you believe that your event may rise to the occasion of meeting one or more of the objectives listed above, please fill out our marketing intake form.
We have a list of freelance photographers and companies that can cover your events. For more information, please contact our campus photographer John Solem.
Photos for News Stories, or Specific Marketing Deliverables
Please fill out the photo request form at least five business days in advance of your request.
Faculty Member Headshots
Faculty headshots are managed through a series of scheduled shoots. Please fill out the photo request form and a member of the Marcom group will contact you with more information.
Student and Staff Member Headshots
Student and staff headshots are beyond the scope of the resources available from Marcom photographers.
We work with several trusted freelance professionals that can assist you at a negotiated discounted rate.
Please contact us for more information.
Contracts and Consent to Photograph or Record
According to the Office of the General Counsel, photo/video professionals must obtain signed consent forms to take photos, audio, or video in private settings, such as classrooms and other areas not generally open to the public.
If the event is a gathering of many people, the photographer or videographer can post “Please be aware, you will be entering an area where photography, video, and audio recording may occur.” signs at entrances in lieu of consent forms.
Consent forms are not required for images captured outdoors or in other public spaces. However, please ask permission whenever possible.
Departments and schools or colleges that wish to hire freelance photographers or videographers can obtain an approved vendor list by the UMass Amherst Procurement Department.
