Photography Guidance for Students

Eastern Connecticut State University

At Eastern, we celebrate our community through photography and videography. These images help us tell the stories of our students, faculty, and campus life across the university’s website, social media, publications, and more. This guidance outlines how your image may be used and your rights as a student regarding consent.

Use of Student Images

Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and in alignment with policies from the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) system, Eastern may use student photos and video in:

• University marketing materials
• Social media and the Eastern website
• News stories and press releases
• Promotional videos, publications, and presentations

Photographs are considered Directory Information, which means the university may use them without prior consent unless a student formally opts out.

Respecting Student Wishes

If you do not wish to appear in photos:

• Politely inform the photographer at the time, and we will always do our best to honor your request.
• You may also opt out entirely by submitting a Request to Withhold Directory Information with the Registrar’s Office.

Please understand that we cannot guarantee exclusion from wide-angle or crowd photography at public events, where there is no expectation of privacy.

FAQs: Student Photography and Videography

1. Can the university use my photo without asking me?
   Yes. Under the CSCU FERPA policy, photos are considered directory information and may be used without prior consent unless you opt out through the Registrar’s Office.
2. What is directory information?
   Directory information includes details like your name, major, honors—and photographs. It may be shared publicly unless you request otherwise.
3. What if I don’t want to be photographed at an event?
   Simply let the photographer know in the moment, and we’ll respect your wishes. Our photographers are trained to be responsive and discreet when students request not to be included.
4. How do I opt out officially?
   Contact the Registrar’s Office to submit a Request to Withhold Directory Information. This will prevent Eastern from using your image in promotional materials or public-facing platforms.
5. If I opt out, will I still be photographed?
   You might still appear in wide shots or group photos taken at public events, but we make every effort not to use your image in a recognizable or prominent way.
6. I’m featured in a university photo I’d like taken down. What can I do?
   Reach out to the Office of University Relations at universityrelations@easternct.edu. If you're featured prominently, we’ll do our best to accommodate your request.
7. What does “prominently featured” mean?
   It means you are the focus of the photo—such as a close-up or clearly identifiable subject—not just a part of the background or crowd.
8. Do I need to sign anything for planned photo shoots?
   For organized shoots, interviews, or video projects where you are the main subject, you may be asked to sign a release form—even if FERPA doesn’t require it. It’s just good practice.
9. Who can I talk to with concerns or questions?
   You can contact the Office of University Relations at (860) 465-5735 or universityrelations@easternct.edu.