This is a plain-language guide to the British Gymnastics Photography Policy supplied to CGC (version 1, March 2020), covering photos and video at training, competitions, events and other gymnastics activities.
Recording gymnastics should safeguard participants, respect privacy and present the sport positively. The policy aims to make photography safe, rather than prohibit it altogether. Venue and event rules must also be followed.
Protecting gymnasts
- Never take, use or edit images in a way that is inappropriate for someone’s age or the setting, puts a child at risk, causes distress or embarrassment, or damages the sport’s reputation.
- No photography or filming in toilets, showers or changing facilities, including by participants.
- Check imagery before publishing it and respect any legal or safeguarding restriction, including court orders preventing publication.
- Do not publish children’s personal information beyond their name and club, unless the policy’s public-interest exception applies. Using a first name rather than a full name is recommended.
- Use safeguards to limit unauthorised viewing or use, and review website and social media images and captions regularly.
Club photography and privacy
Before taking images on the club’s behalf, explain the plans to the people featured and, where appropriate, their parents or guardians. CGC’s registration form records photography consent; tell us about any restrictions or concerns.
Photography must have an appropriate lawful basis, with clear information about its use. Images must be stored securely and kept only as long as necessary. Club imagery must not be stored on portable equipment without encryption; personal devices and personal social media accounts are for purely personal photography, not club imagery.
Images used for marketing involving or aimed at children must meet applicable advertising standards. Use this policy alongside safeguarding, health and safety and data protection guidance.
Personal photos and sharing
The supplied policy excludes appropriate images kept purely for personal purposes and not published or shared, except within family and close friends. Posting on websites or social media generally counts as publication, even when access is restricted. Safeguarding and venue rules still apply.
Live streaming
Live streaming is not permitted, except at major events with prior written British Gymnastics approval. Images sent directly to a monitor inside a gym or event to provide an open training environment are treated separately. Participants and visitors should be informed of approved filming or broadcasts.
At club, local and regional events
- Organisers should communicate photography rules clearly, including notices, registration information or event guidance.
- Official photographers should be identifiable and follow the policy. Designated photography areas may be provided.
- Commercial photography providers need a formal agreement and appropriate checks, covering safeguarding, image rights, conduct, services and commercial arrangements. Approved providers should be identified in event information.
- Report concerns to the organiser or Welfare Officer. If inappropriate photography is suspected, organisers may ask someone to leave, surrender film or delete images, and seek help from security or police.
At British Gymnastics events
Photography for purposes other than personal use requires British Gymnastics permission and advance media accreditation, including photographers attending on a club’s behalf. Accreditation, access and equipment permissions are determined by British Gymnastics; applications need not be accepted on the day.
Photography is generally restricted to public areas, such as spectator seating and concourses. Private or non-public areas require the relevant specific permissions. Competition areas are not open for photography by spectators; designated photo areas may be provided.
For non-accredited photographers:
- Use personal or consumer equipment, rather than professional or commercial equipment. Organisers decide disputed equipment questions.
- No telephoto zoom lenses; lenses over 135mm are generally prohibited, subject to the organiser’s rules.
- No tripods, monopods or equipment stands, flash or additional lighting.
- Do not connect photography equipment to external power supplies.
- Keep equipment and bags clear of aisles, stairs, seating and emergency routes.
British Gymnastics may review images, prohibit unsuitable equipment or ask someone to stop taking photos, delete images or leave. Venue rules and relevant international federation rules may override event arrangements.
Concerns and review
Speak to the club’s Welfare Officer or event organiser if you are worried about photography. At British Gymnastics events, concerns can also be raised with the Event Welfare Officer, venue security or the British Gymnastics Integrity Unit. Significant breaches are handled through British Gymnastics complaints and disciplinary procedures.
The source policy provides for review when legislation, technology or governance requirements change. Further data protection and photography guidance is available through British Gymnastics’ GymNet resources.
