Photography, by it’s very nature, is powerful for communicating the Bastyr brand and connecting the world to its mission. Images should be relatable and depict Bastyr people, spaces, and stories that illustrate academic, campus-life, and research distinction. Use these guidelines to highlight Bastyr and its culture realistically and persuasively.
Candid, spontaneous shots are often best to convey authentic moments at Bastyr and portray the educational process. Look for moments where students are fully engaged, have a sense of wonder or concentration, or are interacting with teachers. Classrooms where a visual element is present make great photos as well.
When students engage in mocking real-life classroom and lifestyle shots, make sure they have appropriate direction and are encouraged to be themselves.
Custom photo shoots are preferred to tell Bastyr brand stories, convey ideas, and communicate program characteristics. When actual Bastyr content is not available, select stock photography that:
The Bastyr branded content library should be the first resource for university content, but often stock resources are needed to fill the gaps in existing imagery. When selecting images ensure that the image is high-quality, realistic, and contributes to the message at-hand. Use relevant, up-to-date imagery.
Bastyr University is distinctive in emphasizing the outdoors as an integral part of the student's educational experience. Students are a fundamental part of communicating the campus's image; please include them in outdoor campus shots. It is worth keeping in mind that empty campus shots have a purpose but can make Bastyr feel dull and lifeless when presenting campus life. Above all else, outdoor shooting requires morning or late afternoon light, along with good weather, so an indoor backup plan is helpful.
Shoots get planned down to the second, but if we can capture a spontaneous shot of students traversing across campus or gardening, we love catching them.
Illustrate campus culture by capturing the qualities and characteristics that make Bastyr campus distinct. Photography should enhance the campus's image and help the school attract students, faculty, and funding— that is to say, photos should be interesting, cheerful, and meaningful. When possible, find moments in a typical day where students are talking, exploring, studying, and enjoying their surroundings.
Opt for impromptu photo opportunities, when possible and always get permission before use.Bastyr culture can be found in the library, around the hallways, at the market, and pretty much wherever students spend time, including gleaning insights from faculty.
Research and science imagery is critical to convey the narrative of university research and academics. The people that you photograph do not need to look directly at the camera and smile. Instead, have the subject freeze in a natural pose that demonstrates the research that is being conducted. Think about Bastyr's research and clinical trials as a story and plan what is needed to tell it.
Tips:
Imagery should convey an authentic feeling of what patients can expect in a visit. A service situation between a staff member and patient while explaining something or handing over practice material (without equipment) is ideal. Choose rooms that show our practice in the best light and avoid photos of the treatment room with an empty chair.
Tour the facility with the photographer before the photoshoot to plan the proper lighting and perspectives. The background should not be busy or distracting; less is more.
Images in Bastyr's digital library have been culled by the marketing team as visual resources for branded content.
Browse stock images on istock.com. When you find something you like, send the istock image # to marketing and they will purchase the image for you.
For all photo shoots involving student participants, or volunteers, our policy is to get their permission in the form of a signed release form.