Press, Media & Photography Policy

1. Purpose

This policy sets out the rules for press, media representatives, photographers, videographers, and content creators covering Festival events.

Its purpose is to:

• Protect the rights and privacy of participants
• Maintain event integrity and safety
• Ensure fair and professional media coverage
• Clarify permitted and restricted media activity

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• Accredited journalists and media outlets
• Photographers and videographers
• Influencers, bloggers, and content creators
• Festival staff, volunteers, and contractors
• Any individual capturing or distributing images, audio, or video at Festival events

It applies to both in-person and online Festival activity.

3. Media Accreditation

3.1 Accreditation Requirement

All press and media activity requires official Festival accreditation.

Accreditation:

• Is granted at the Festival’s discretion
• May require proof of professional status
• Is personal and non-transferable
• Must be displayed when requested

The Festival reserves the right to refuse or revoke accreditation at any time.

4. Photography & Filming Rules

4.1 Permitted Areas

Photography and filming may take place only in:

• Designated press areas
• Red carpet or photo call zones
• Approved public Festival spaces

4.2 Prohibited Areas

Photography and filming are strictly prohibited in:

• Screening auditoriums during film screenings
• Jury or judging areas
• Staff-only or restricted zones
• Any area clearly marked as “No Photography”

Recording film screenings is strictly prohibited.

5. Consent & Privacy

Media representatives must:

• Obtain clear consent before recording interviews
• Respect requests for privacy
• Avoid photographing individuals in distress
• Obtain parental or guardian consent before photographing minors

Attendees may be filmed or photographed in public Festival spaces where legally permitted.

6. Use of Festival Branding

Festival logos, branding, and official assets:

• May only be used with written permission
• Must not be altered, distorted, or misrepresented
• Must not imply endorsement or partnership without approval

Use of laurels and branding is governed by the Branding, Laurels & Marketing Usage Policy.

7. Screenings, Embargoes & Confidential Material

• Press screenings or preview materials may be subject to embargo
• Embargo dates and conditions must be strictly observed
• Digital screening links must not be shared, recorded, or downloaded

Breaches may result in revoked accreditation or legal action.

8. Online & Social Media Conduct

Media coverage must:

• Be accurate and fair
• Avoid defamatory, misleading, or harmful content
• Respect embargoes and confidentiality
• Comply with platform terms and UK law

The Festival may request correction or removal of content that breaches this policy.

9. Drones & Special Equipment

Use of drones or specialist filming equipment:

• Requires prior written approval
• Must comply with UK aviation and privacy law
• Must not disrupt Festival operations or safety

Unauthorised drone use is prohibited.

10. Festival Rights

The Festival may:

• Photograph and film events for promotional or archival use
• Capture images of public areas and audiences
• Request removal of unauthorised or harmful media content

11. Misconduct & Violations

Accreditation may be revoked for:

• Harassment or intimidation
• Breach of filming or photography rules
• Misrepresentation of the Festival
• Ignoring staff instructions
• Privacy or intellectual property violations

Serious breaches may result in removal from events, bans, or legal action.

12. Complaints & Reporting

Concerns regarding media behaviour may be reported to Festival management.

Complaints will be:

• Handled fairly and confidentially
• Investigated where appropriate

13. Amendments

This policy may be updated at any time.

14. Acceptance

Accreditation or participation as press or media constitutes acceptance of this Press, Media & Photography Policy.