People process images 60,000 times faster than words, so visual storytelling is important in communications, especially on social media. This page contains advice and guidance on photography and filming in churches, including information on how to follow the General Data Protection Regulations for photos and film.
On this page
Photography
A picture tells a thousand words. Therefore, it’s important that you use good photos and images in your church communications. The blog post below offers information on photography in churches and tips for taking good quality photographs:
Filming in churches yourself
Media and commercial filming in churches and church yards
Churches and churchyards are popular locations for filming. Careful planning is essential. The Diocesan Registry has produced guidelines to assist Incumbents, PCCs and churchwardens in the Diocese to decide whether to agree to a filming request
British Board of Film Classification's Film Ratings
When deciding whether to agree to filming in a church or churchyard, consideration must be given to whether the proposed content is appropriate. For example, there should be nothing obscene, blasphemous, prejudicial or otherwise objectionable. The British Board of Film Classification's film ratings set out what content is suitable for different film classifications. As you will see from the ratings, just because a film is classified as suitable for younger children, does not neccesarily mean that it is appropriate for filming to take place in a church or churchyard.
Filming and photographing people: GDPR, consent and safeguarding
It is also important that churches follow General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) and safeguarding guidelines for filming and photography.
Those appearing in film or photography will need to have given consent, as religion is a protected feature under GDPR. If no one from your congregation will be identifiable during filming or photography, then you don’t need to gain consent. However, if members of the congregation will be, they will need to give permission.
Permission can be obtained by a completed consent form. These forms can be signed by:
- The individual if they are an adult.
- A parent or guardian if the child is aged 12 or under. (but it's also good practice to ask the child before you use their photograph).
- Both the parent or guardian and the child if they are aged 13-16.
- The child themselves if they are aged 17 (but inform the parent/guardian).
The form must include all the places the photo or video may be used by the church.
Consent for filming people in churches
The link below provides information and advice on consent and GDPR considerations for photography and filming in churches. It also details useful things to do in preparation ahead of filming or photography in your church building. These include:
- Communicate well - tell people in advance
- Create photo and video free zones
- Ensure your churches Privicy Notice is on display prior to people signing consent forms
Safeguarding guidance relating to filming and photography
The National Safeguarding Team have created guidance for activities involving children and vulnerable adults in the Safer Environments and Activities guidance, which are linked below.
