Photography and Filming on HGSE’s Campus

Policies and Permissions

The following is based on Harvard University policy governing photography and filming on Harvard property and is adapted for use by the Office of Communications and Marketing at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Campus Photography by the HGSE Marcom Team

The Office of Communications and Marketing (Marcom) at the Harvard Graduate School of Education routinely conducts photography and video recordings of people and activities related to the educational mission and campus life at HGSE. We use such photos and videos for public-facing marketing and communications purposes, to chronicle and celebrate the distinct educational achievements of our community. Photos may be shared as part of news stories on the HGSE website, on social media, and in marketing materials to support the school’s enrollment efforts for its degree programs, professional development programs, or for other priority initiatives.

Marcom offers individuals the right to opt out of being photographed. Individuals may also contact the Marcom team if they would prefer that a particular photograph not be used. When photographing inside classrooms, Marcom always coordinates with faculty and informs class participants in advance, ensuring that space is made available for those who prefer not to be photographed. When covering events, Marcom typically provides notice to the event organizer that photography will be taking place.

External Photography and Permissions

Aligning with Harvard-wide policy, any individual, organization, or media entity wanting to engage in photography or filming on the HGSE campus for broadcast, public dissemination, or commercial usage of any type must request advance permission from HGSE's Office of Communications and Marketing,. [Note: For filming requests involving locations elsewhere at Harvard, contact the local Communications Office of the School or unit.]

Permission Process

Permissions to photograph or film on the HGSE campus will be granted by the senior media officer in the HGSE Office of Communications and Marketing, in conjunction with the HGSE Office of Operations. Please see the request form below, as well as restrictions and location information.

Requirements, Restrictions, and Locations

• External photographers and videographers are restricted from capturing or using images of HGSE’s shield and/or logo, as well as signage or other iconography of Harvard or HGSE. Harvard University maintains strict use-of-name and trademark protocols that limit this usage.
• External producers may not use the name “Harvard” or the “Harvard Graduate School of Education” for any purpose except to accurately refer to the location of the recordings or to the affiliation of the subjects being recorded. The use of the school or University name is not permitted in connection with any advertising, promotional or publicity purpose or to otherwise state or imply an endorsement by Harvard of either the recordings or the views expressed in the recordings.
• External photographers and videographers who are authorized to shoot on campus should refrain from taking imagery of people or places that have not been specifically permitted. B-roll and other background footage should be discussed and permitted in advance. 

Media Requests to Interview or Film on Campus

Members of the media should follow the permissions process outlined here OR contact the senior media officer in Marcom. HGSE faculty and staff should alert Marcom if a media outlet is interested in visiting campus to interview or photograph them.