for everyone, 3 min read
Using event photos: what's usually fine and what to ask first
Socials, press, flyers and paid work: where the usual line sits, and how to ask.
Most event photos are shot so the people in them can use them. A few uses need a quick question first. Knowing which is which saves an awkward message later.
Usually fine
| where | notes |
|---|---|
| Your own posts and stories | What the photos are for. Post them the way you'd post anything else |
| Your press kit | Press photos, live shots and logos for bookers and promoters |
| Press and blogs about the show | Send the full-size file so it isn't a blurry screenshot |
| Event pages and flyers for your own shows | Use the size made for it: 4:5 for posts, 9:16 for stories |
Ask first
- Ads or boosted posts
- Merch, posters you sell, or album and single artwork
- A brand's campaign, or anything someone else is paying for
Most photographers say yes to a fair offer. A short message with where it will run and for how long gets a fast answer.
Usage terms
If a gallery comes with usage terms, they're what you agreed. They win over anything here.
Keep the files clean
Post from the full-size download rather than a screenshot or a repost. It looks better, and stories and feed posts get the crop they were made for.
On presskit
Each gallery shows what you can download and any terms the media team set. Everything you accept lands in your library, full size, ready for your EPK and media kit.