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Last updated 21st January 2025

Filming and photography including asking for consent

Photos and film are increasingly important in a digital age, as they offer a unique and engaging insight into the life of our diocese and our parishes.

So we should take the best photos we can and include photos of people taking part in parish life. See this page on our website for guidance in taking good pictures. 

However, taking pictures and video should be balanced with continuing to provide a safe and secure environment for all.

Some members of our communities may not feel comfortable appearing in photos or video, and for others, it may compromise their safety. Safeguarding, GDPR and creating safe places are all key factors to consider before any filming is done, including livestreaming.

Those appearing in film or photography will need to have given consent, as religion is a protected feature under GDPR. If members of the congregation are identifiable, they need to give permission in advance. 

If permission has not been given by someone, it can be helpful to identify them by providing a simple sticker for their lapels or by providing a photo and video-free zone for them to be seated.

Permissions for adults

A photo release/consent form can be signed by an adult and must include all the places where the photo or video may be used by the church. Regular attendees at the church only need to sign this once, but it should be refreshed regularly; eg every three years. New visitors should be asked before the service or event begins.

Permissions for children

Videos or photos containing children (under the age of 16) may be used by the church if consent has been given by their parent or guardian, following the same guidelines as above.

Photo release/consent forms

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). 

You should make it clear that, in giving permission to film and/or take photographs of an adult and/or a child, it may be used across a range of media.

In the case of filming and photography carried out by Diocesan representatives, the resulting material will always be used with care, respect and in a context appropriate with the aims and mission of the Diocese. 

You may wish to base your local consent form for your parish on the Diocesan version:  

  • Diocesan consent form in Word and PDF formats

Be prepared

As part of your preparation, prior to an event you could tell your community your plans for filming and send out the photo release forms to your email list, WhatsApp groups, or Facebook groups – anywhere your community can see it – so they are ready.

Have spare copies with you on the day for anyone who has not yet signed already. Have filming free zones available if possible and place signs on key entry points to remind people filming will take place. 

Remember too that consent can also be withdrawn. This means you will have to delete videos or images of that person. Under GDPR regulations the process of withdrawing consent must be as easy as providing consent. 

 

  • We will expand this page further as we have more relevant information available to share. 

 

 

Ronnie Semley, page last updated January 2025

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