Media Guidelines

1. Accreditation Policy

The accreditation process is designed to create a professional and respectful environment, ensuring our talented creatives are celebrated and supported while providing accredited media with the tools to deliver impactful coverage. Adhering to our guidelines is essential for maintaining the integrity and smooth operation of the festival.

• All press activities, including attending screenings, Q&A sessions, and red-carpet events, require official accreditation to ensure professional standards are upheld.
• Accredited media must display their badges at all times to access designated areas such as press zones, screenings, and red-carpet events. This ensures a safe and organised environment for all attendees.
• Badges are issued individually, are non-transferable, and must not be shared under any circumstances to maintain security and accountability.
• Accreditation grants access to embargoed materials, including press kits and pre-release updates. Adherence to embargo dates and confidentiality agreements is mandatory to protect the festival’s integrity.
• Failure to comply with accreditation policies may result in revocation of credentials and additional penalties.

2. Filming and Photography

• Photography is permitted only in approved locations, such as red carpets, photo call zones, and press panels.
• Flash photography is prohibited during live Q&A sessions, awards presentations, and inside screening venues.
• Filming or recording of any kind during film screenings is strictly prohibited to ensure compliance with anti-piracy regulations.
• The use of professional photography or videography equipment is allowed only in designated areas and requires prior approval from the festival team.
• Photos may be taken during live Q&As or awards presentations, but flash usage is not allowed to maintain the experience for participants.
• Restricted areas require prior approval for filming or photography.

3. Event Coverage

• Red carpet access is time-limited; media professionals must remain in designated areas and respect assigned schedules.
• Press conferences require pre-submission of questions, and interview times must be adhered to as allocated.
• Approaching talent for interviews requires prior approval and scheduled appointments.
• Coverage must prioritise respect for the privacy, schedules, and professionalism of festival participants, attendees, and staff.

4. Screening Guidelines

• Respect embargo dates for reviews and coverage, as outlined in press releases.
• Devices such as phones or cameras are not permitted inside screening venues to ensure compliance with anti-piracy regulations.
• Flash photography and filming are strictly prohibited during screenings.
• Any breach of screening guidelines, including unauthorised recording, will result in immediate removal and potential legal action.

5. Intellectual Property and Usage

• Festival materials, including logos and promotional assets, must not be altered, cropped, or modified in any way.
• Mandatory attribution: "Image courtesy of Glowflare Short Film Festival."
• Use festival materials exclusively for editorial or promotional purposes directly related to the event.
• Unauthorised use of festival branding or materials may result in the revocation of media credentials.

6. Social Media Etiquette

• Use official hashtags: #GlowflareFestival and tag @GlowflareFest in your posts.
• Live-tweeting or streaming is permitted only in designated areas and must comply with embargo policies.
• Ensure your tone is professional and aligns with the festival’s branding and messaging.
• Social media coverage must respect the embargo rules for all advance screenings and press materials.

7. Confidentiality and Embargoes

• Press-only materials and advance screenings are confidential and must not be shared without permission.
• Follow embargo periods for reviews, interviews, and announcements to ensure fairness and compliance.
• Any breach of embargo policies may result in revoked access to future festival opportunities.

8. Safety and Security

• Follow venue rules, including safety protocols such as fire exits and crowd management procedures.
• Cooperate with security staff during incidents or emergencies, and report any suspicious activity promptly.
• Media professionals are expected to prioritise safety and avoid behaviours that could disrupt the festival experience.

9. Technical Support

• Wi-Fi credentials for press will be available at the media desk to assist with timely coverage.
• Contact the IT support team for assistance with downloads, streaming, or other technical issues related to coverage.
• Technical support is available during designated hours; please plan accordingly for deadlines.

10. Code of Conduct

• Maintain professional and respectful interactions with festival staff, talent, and fellow media professionals at all times.
• Harassment, discrimination, or disruptive behaviour will result in immediate removal and potential penalties, including revoked access.
• Accredited media are ambassadors of the festival and must uphold its values of creativity, respect, and inclusivity.