Photography and Filming Policy

Introduction

As part of our mission to engage the public and celebrate the heritage of our historic watermill, we recognise the value of sharing photographs and videos online. Visitors and volunteers are important ambassadors for New Hall Mill, and we encourage responsible use of photography and video to promote our site and its activities. This policy sets out the standards and expectations for all those taking photographs or filming videos intended for use online, on social media, or on other public platforms.

Purpose

• To support positive promotion of the watermill through appropriate content.
• To ensure that the privacy and comfort of visitors, staff, and volunteers are respected at all times.
• To protect the reputation and integrity of the site and its operations.

Guidelines

1. Respect for Visitors and Volunteers
   • We recognise that obtaining written or recorded consent before sharing images or videos online is impractical, as this would involve unwarranted storage of personal information. We therefore encourage trust and respect when selecting photographs and videos to share online.
   • You must not photograph or film volunteers or members of the public, including children, where they will be the subject or main focus of the composition, i.e. they are facing the camera and clearly visible, unless with their explicit verbal permission.
   • In cases of doubt, (e.g. a child looking towards the camera but at a distance, a child close to the camera but partly turned away, or a modest person who prefers not to be photographed), it is expected that at minimum, the subject's face will be blurred before sharing.
   • You must not record private conversations or personal information.
   • Volunteers must not publish or share behind-the-scenes content (e.g. staff-only areas, security systems) without prior permission.
2. Appropriate Use
   • Content you share or submit may be informative,or entertaining, but must in all cases be respectful and aligned with the watermill’s heritage, values, and educational aims.
   • You are encouraged to submit content for sharing through the watermill’s website, reports, bulletins, or social media accounts, whether for archiving or for promotional use.
   • You must not post anything that could be considered offensive, political, discriminatory, or misleading.
   • Personal opinions must be clearly separated from official messaging.
   • Where there is potential for doubt, you should ensure that your posts make clear you are posting as an individual, not on behalf of the watermill (e.g., "Review", “Views my own”).
3. Safeguarding and Data Protection
   • You must not tag or name individuals without consent.
   • Any images featuring children or vulnerable individuals must comply with our safeguarding and GDPR policies.
4. Commercial Use Prohibited
   • Photography or filming must not be used for commercial gain unless formally authorised in writing, with the sole exception of monetised YouTube accounts.

Monitoring and Enforcement

• New Hall Mill reserves the right to request the removal of any online content that is deemed inappropriate, misleading, or damaging to the site’s reputation.
• Volunteers who breach this policy may also be subject to disciplinary procedures, including suspension of volunteer status and privileges.

Further Guidance

If you are unsure whether a photo or video is suitable for sharing, please speak to a member of the Committee.

Thank you for helping us share the story of our watermill in a respectful and responsible way.