Photography

Why Image Choice Matters

The images we use shape how our community understands and connects with the Abbotsford School District. Thoughtful visuals reflect our values and support clear, respectful communication.

Use approved images from the district’s image bank whenever possible. All images in the image bank include students with current media release consent, and a curated selection of stock photos is also available. If you need a photo, please contact the Communications team.

Choose images that reflect our diverse community and show students and staff engaged in meaningful, inclusive school experiences. Avoid photos with visible external logos, disengaged subjects, or scenes that could be misinterpreted. Use stock images only when necessary and ensure they align with district standards.

Photography Guidelines/Considerations

Photos and stock photos

  • Use bright, natural lighting when possible. Avoid heavy shadows or underexposed images.

  • Focus on authentic, candid moments that show engagement, emotion, and participation.

  • Using our own photos is preferred whenever possible. Stock photos may be less engaging, may include details that do not accurately represent our District, and may also be in use by other organizations.

  • Use high-resolution images (at least 1080x1080px for Instagram and 1200x630px for Facebook).

  • Prioritise faces and moments rather than static group shots.

  • Ensure media consent is on file for any identifiable student in the image.

Use of Filters & Editing

  • Avoid extreme filters that alter skin tone, distort colours, or create unrealistic effects.

  • Light editing to adjust brightness, contrast, or sharpness is acceptable to improve visibility.

  • Maintain a natural, welcoming aesthetic.

Logos on Images

  • Use a district or school logo only when the image serves an official or promotional purpose (e.g., campaign post, registration reminder, event promotion).

  • Avoid logo use on everyday photo posts, stories, or student highlights unless the content is being widely shared beyond your local audience.

  • Always use high-quality PNG logos with transparent backgrounds and correct sizing.

Copyright and Photo Releases

Always ensure that any image you use is properly sourced and cleared for use. Do not copy or download images from the internet unless you have explicit permission from the copyright holder, as doing so may violate copyright law. If you are unsure about the source or usage rights of an image, do not use it. This protects the Abbotsford School District from legal and reputational risk and ensures that all materials meet professional and ethical standards. Please use our image bank as much as possible and advise the communications team who will help you source new images.

Click here for Student Photograph/Video and Media Consent details and forms. 

AP324: Student Photography/Video and Media Consent

When photographing events, be mindful that our photo releases only apply to Abbotsford School District students whose parents or guardians have provided consent. If students from other schools, community groups, or the public are present, their images may not be covered by our releases. This makes it important to carefully select and crop images, or to obtain additional permissions when necessary. For approved, high-resolution images that are cleared for use, please email info@abbyschools.ca.