Spectator Photography Policies Help Educate Patrons

Amid the flurry of pre-event preparations, an activities or athletics administrator will no doubt receive requests from spectators for photography access, be it beforehand or at the ticketing gate. To eliminate elongated phone calls and emails explaining policies and guidelines, the development of school-mandated processes can pave the way to smooth event management.

It is recommended that the creation of Spectator Photography Policies is different from those that are enforced when authorized professional media are covering your event. The primary difference is that professional media are permitted in Designated Photography Zones close to the playing surface while Spectator Photography Areas should be limited to seating areas.

Common policy language being implemented by state associations across the nation for spectators includes, but is not limited to:

• Patrons may bring cameras, including cell phones, that are a basic point-and-shoot consumer grade with a lens no longer than two inches and is not detachable.

• Any camera that exceeds those specifications is considered a professional grade camera. Only authorized media members are permitted to use professional grade cameras.

• Accessories such as monopods, selfie sticks, tripods, GoPro mounts and other attachments are generally not permitted for use by spectators taking photographs. Only credentialed media are permitted to use professional photography equipment at this event.

• Spectator photography locations are limited to the spectator seating area. Spectators must be respectful of and not impede other spectators while photographing the event.

• Photos taken by spectators are for personal use and may not be sold or distributed free of charge.

With advanced technologies of many cameras, be aware of spectators taking video. That can often lead to the temptation of livestreaming the action. Onsite administrators have the authority to halt any streaming that wasn’t previously approved.

Poster-sized signage located near the ticket gate detailing Spectator Photography Policies will educate patrons, and hopefully lead to an understanding of equity access for all. In addition, a one-pager on your school’s activities or athletics website will assist patrons in their planning.

Tim Leighton has been communications coordinator for the Minnesota State High School League since 2015 after more than 30 years as a sportswriter for the St. Paul Pioneer Press in Minnesota. He is a member of the High School Today Publications Committee. He can be reached at tleighton@mshsl.org.