Photos and film

Press Photos

Many newspapers lack the resources to send out a photographer, so feel free to provide photos of both yourself and your research. High-quality images also make it easier for communications staff to promote your work through news articles both internally at SLU and externally.

Use the highest resolution possible and organise your photos so you can easily sort and retrieve them later. Some media outlets only use landscape photos, while others prefer portrait orientation – so make sure to include both formats.

Before and After

Some projects are well suited to showing progress over time. For example, documenting the transformation of a cultivated area can be particularly effective, and before-and-after images can have real impact. Plan your photo documentation in advance and set reminders.

Focus and Variety

Modern mobile phone cameras often include a “portrait mode” that works well not only for taking quality portraits, but also for capturing detail shots – such as a specific plant or leaf. Try to vary your image selection with both close-ups and wide shots. Images that include people tend to draw attention, so don’t hesitate to show yourself or your colleagues in your unique research environment. It offers a glimpse into your daily work, which can be engaging for others to see.

Filming Yourself

For best results, keep the camera as steady as possible. If filming handheld, holding your phone close to your body gives better stability. Using a tripod is especially helpful for longer clips. You can also improvise by propping your phone against something stable.

Videos can easily become too long – help the viewer stay engaged by focusing on your key messages and avoiding unnecessary tangents. Longer clips can be edited and shortened, but that requires extra effort. All videos published on SLU’s channels must be subtitled to ensure accessibility.

Help with Video

We at Research communication @LTV are happy to assist with simple video recordings or interviews in front of the camera. For larger-scale productions, SLU has agreements with a number of external providers.

Hiring a Photographer

If you frequently appear in print media, it may be worth booking a session with a professional photographer. You’ll receive press photos tailored to various formats (print, social media, black-and-white, colour, etc.). It gives a professional impression and helps journalists – especially as many smaller newspapers today lack the means to take their own photographs. A well-composed portrait can be useful not only for media contacts but also in your own social media channels.

Obligations, Rights and Policies

If other people are visible in your images, you’ll need their consent before giving others permission to use the photo. Make sure you are complying with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Remember that the photographer owns the rights to their material. Always check with them before sharing any content, and don’t forget to credit the photographer when publishing.

Make sure your photos and videos comply with SLU’s Image and video procedure