Imagery is Important
Imagery, as both an art medium and a powerful communication device, has deep value in both storytelling and also as a reflection of Cal Poly. It can evoke memory, inspiration, and connection to the images and the storyteller. Use this framework to create visually compelling images and layouts to connect our audience with what makes Cal Poly distinct.
Learn by Doing
The images we use should highlight the active role our students play in their projects and efforts. Dynamic images with movement, authentic expression (actively engaged in their work/not posed or looking at the camera), and clear representation of their work are key. Choosing a variety of locations and disciplines while highlighting both traditional and unconventional learning opportunities is a great way to showcase Learn by Doing across disciplines.
Place
When capturing or selecting images of locations, choose well-lit and compelling scenery that clearly shows the environment, whether it’s on campus or in the community. Imagery should focus on what distinguishes Cal Poly: our beautiful climate, location, campus and land.
People
The people — our students, professors, staff, alumni and guests — come together to create our Learn by Doing environment. Lifestyle and portrait photography should reflect the vibrancy of our campus community.
Brand Style
All photography needs to conform to our brand style in order to reinforce our brand personality and messaging. Regardless of whether you are shooting wide, detailed or even portraits, your subjects should reflect Learn by Doing in action.
Resources
Downloadable Photos
Our collection of high-quality campus and Learn by Doing images can be downloaded from Photoshelter and used to illustrate your next project.
Photo Release Forms
You will need to obtain written permission/consent from participants in planned or staged photo and video shoots.
Photography Request
Have a photography opportunity or need that is Learn by Doing focused, photogenic, and/or applicable to a wide audience?
University Photography Team
The photography team produces images of active and engaged individuals, capturing Learn by Doing in action, showcasing what’s unique about the Cal Poly experience with beautiful, dynamic photography.
This creates useable images across a broad range of Cal Poly departments and a variety of publications and assets, or as part of broader projects.
If you have a photography opportunity or need that is Learn by Doing focused, photogenic, and/or applicable to a wide audience, please use our photo request form.
Project Requirements
Photography projects will generally be considered if they have:
- Wide audience appeal
- Clear purpose with distinct, specific and measurable goals
- A long shelf life (usable beyond the next few months or quarters)
We request a two-week lead time from the date of the shoot. All photography projects produced by our campus photographers are property of Cal Poly and may be used on websites, social media and for other marketing purposes. We may decline photography requests based on time, staffing, technical or thematic concerns and/or limitations.