Media

PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO POLICY

Our media policy reflects our commitment to maintaining a respectful and secure environment for all. We strive to balance the use of media with privacy and sensitivity, ensuring that every moment we capture aligns with the values of our church and the trust we uphold within our community

1. Purpose
The purpose of this photography and videography policy is to provide guidelines and expectations regarding the use of professional cameras, photography equipment, and video recording and streaming devices at Engine House Church. It aims to ensure the privacy, security, and respect of all individuals attending worship services, events, and activities held within any Engine House Church location or building.

2. Scope
This policy applies to all individuals, including Engine House Church congregation, visitors, staff, and volunteers, as well as any photographers or videographers engaged by Engine House Church. Engine House Church may present photographs and video recordings of worship services, events, and activities to the rest of the world, including and not limited to its website, streaming services, social media, flyers, brochures, informational displays, and adverts. Engine House Church also reserves the right to provide copies and other recordings to contributors, churches, and external organizations.

3. General Guidelines

3.1. Permission: Obtain appropriate permission from church leadership or the media department before using professional cameras, photography equipment, or recording devices within the church premises, including during worship services, events, and activities. Engine House Church reserves the right to take photographs, video broadcasts, and recordings at worship services, events, and all related activities. Individuals who do not give consent must be seated in the ‘No Photography’ zones. Only accredited volunteers are permitted to capture images of vulnerable adults or minors.

3.2. Respect and Privacy: Respect individuals' privacy and personal space within the church premises. Do not intrude upon personal conversations or capture intimate moments of worship such as communion or prayer ministry. Ensure that photography or videography does not disrupt or distract from the intended purpose of the event or service. Stay clear of ‘No-Photography’ zones. Individuals have the right to decline being photographed or recorded and should be respected if they choose not to participate.

3.3. Sensitivity: Exercise sensitivity when capturing images during worship services or other sensitive events. Be mindful of the atmosphere and refrain from behavior that could detract from the occasion.

3.4. Professional Conduct: Conduct yourself in a professional and respectful manner when engaging in photography or videography activities. Adhere to ethical standards and avoid any behavior that could be disruptive or disrespectful to others.

4. Photography and Videography Requests

4.1. Request Procedure: Individuals or groups seeking to capture photographs or videos within the church premises for personal, promotional, or commercial purposes must submit a request to the church leadership or communications department. The request should include the intended photography or videography session's purpose, date, time, and duration.

4.2. Approval Process: The church leadership or designated staff will review the request and determine its feasibility and alignment with the church's values and activities. The decision regarding approval or denial will be communicated to the requester in a timely manner. Engine House Church reserves the right to deny or revoke photography or videography requests at its discretion, especially if they conflict with the church's values or objectives.

4.3. Restrictions: Certain areas or events within the church premises may be restricted from photography or videography due to privacy, sensitivity, or copyright concerns. Respect any designated "No-Photography" zones or specific event restrictions.

5. Use of Captured Media

5.1. Ownership and Usage Rights: Unless otherwise specified, Engine House Church retains ownership and usage rights of any photographs or videos taken within or at any Engine House Church location or premises. This includes the right to use and publish the media for church-related purposes, such as promotion, archiving, social media, website content, and church publications.

5.2. Individual Privacy: Engine House Church respects the privacy of individuals and will handle captured media responsibly. Personal information, including names, contact details, or any other identifying information, should not be shared without explicit consent.

5.3. Social Media and Online Platforms: When sharing photographs or videos on social media or online platforms, ensure that they align with the church's values and positively represent Engine House Church. Be mindful of individual privacy and avoid sharing any content that could be considered inappropriate, offensive, or compromising.

6. Removal Requests

6.1. Request Process: Any individual who appears in a published photograph or video may submit a removal request to the church leadership or the communications department, even if prior permission has been granted. The request should include the specific media and a detailed explanation of the concern.

6.2. Prompt Action: Engine House Church will promptly investigate the removal request and take appropriate action, which may include removing the requested media from public platforms and discontinuing its use in future publications. Removal requests will be handled with sensitivity and respect for individual privacy rights.

7. Right to Restrict

7.1. Rights to Restrict: Engine House Church reserves the right to restrict or prohibit individuals from taking photographs, capturing videos, or using recording devices at its discretion, without prior notice. This restriction may be applied during specific events, services, or in designated areas to ensure the safety, privacy, and security of individuals, as well as to maintain the sanctity of worship and other activities.

7.2. Enforcement: Church staff or designated volunteers may enforce restrictions on photography and videography as deemed necessary. Individuals failing to comply with these restrictions may be asked to cease their activities immediately and may be subject to removal from the premises.

7.3. Discretionary Authority: Engine House Church retains the discretion to ban individuals from taking photos or recording videos for reasons including but not limited to violation of privacy, disruptive behavior, or non-compliance with the photography and videography policy.

By attending Engine House Church, individuals acknowledge that they have read and understood the photography and videography policy and agree to abide by its guidelines. Engine House Church may change the content of this policy at a meeting of the oversight team without notice. It is recommended to review this and other church policies periodically.

Media Department
contact@enginehouse.church
Last updated: 26 August 2024