What makes a good photograph?
Portraits
Whenever possible, capture people in their natural environments. Using props or objects will help tell a person’s story. Natural light settings are preferred and candid expressions will help convey their personality.
People in Action
To highlight research and student experiences on campus, show people working and engaging with each other. These images will highlight Lehigh’s hands-on, collaborative nature as well as the professor/student relationships that are at the core of the Lehigh experience. If the space you are shooting in feels cluttered, focus in on your subject to show a more intimate action.
Posed vs. Natural
Images that are spontaneous and not posed will resonate better with Lehigh’s audiences. Avoid these unnatural images especially in lifestyle, community engagement or event settings.
Representing Community
Be mindful to represent the diversity across our campus. Look at your overall photo selections within a particular project to see if they are representative of our campus community. If in doubt, ask the Vice President of Equity and Community or a member of the Office of Communications & Marketing to review your selections.
Attention to Details
Avoid images with students wearing strongly branded clothing, non-Lehigh collegiate wear or inappropriate/revealing clothing. Also be conscious to refresh any image that does not feel modern or looks dated.
Campus Beauty and Architecture
Images that showcase Lehigh’s beautiful campus and architectural details will have a powerful impact on Lehigh’s audiences and should be used as often as possible. Add energy and personality by incorporating people doing various things such as walking, studying or socializing.
Photography Guidelines
- Sharp, clearly focused image—at least the main part
- Full range of tones from the whitest white to the blackest black
- True, vibrant colors
- Good finish quality
- Photos for online uses should have a resolution of 72 dpi, and those for print materials should be at least 300 dpi
