Guidance for Photo and Video Release Forms

The university requires photographers to obtain an individual photo/video release when…

  • Filming in a private space (residence halls including dorm rooms and common spaces, classrooms, labs, and private offices).
  • The photo/video is paired with language that will be used for commercial* purposes.

*Commercial content is defined as content intended to sell or promote the university and any of its programs or services. As opposed to editorial content, which is intended to inform, rather than to sell.

Notice of Filming

The university advises event organizers and communicators to post a Notice of Filming (crowd release) at public events where photo/video filming may occur as a risk mitigator for all uses, whether commercial or editorial. However, if an image will be used for commercial use, and an individual’s likeness is clearly recognizable, an individual model release should still be obtained.

Distributing the Notice of Filming can be done in a variety of ways:

  • Posted on the entrances and exits.
  • Printed on tickets.
  • Presented on event slides.
  • Posted on the event website.
  • Posted at registration/welcome table.

Official Notice of Filming & Photography

By entering this Colorado State University building, event, or program, you are entering an area where photography, audio, and video recording may occur. Through your entry, presence, or participation in or at the event premises, you acknowledge that you have been informed that you may be photographed, filmed, and/or otherwise recorded and grant the Board of Governors of the Colorado State University System permission to use your voice, name, and/or likeness without any compensation, credit, or other consideration for exploitation in any media now known or hereafter devised, in perpetuity, throughout the universe, and the advertising and publicity thereof. Furthermore, you hereby release the Board of Governors of the Colorado State University System, its officers, employees, and each and all persons involved from any liability connected with the taking, recording, digitizing, or publication and use of the above-mentioned recording including, but not limited to, any claims for invasion of privacy, violation of the right of publicity, defamation, copyright infringement, or for any fees, payment, or royalties for use of such recorded media.

Guidance for Filming Minors

  • Events on campus where minors are in attendance: Posting a Notice of Filming with a method for individuals to opt-out will cover all editorial use of photos/videos.​
  • Filming in K-12 settings off campus or when K-12 programs come to campus: The school districts’ photo/videos releases extend coverage for editorial use of images. ​CSU units will need to coordinate with school administrators/teachers to inform photographers of any opt-out students. 
  • All other instances: Photo/video release forms are required when a minor’s likeness is clearly recognizable, no matter the environment or usage (editorial or commercial).

If you have further questions about the use of photo & video releases, please email [email protected].

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