Photography and Digital Media Policy
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America (GOARCH)
The following confirms the GOARCH policy regarding ownership, use, and dissemination of all photography and video content (collectively referred to as “digital assets”) created in connection with the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America (GOARCH) and its official media outlet, The Orthodox Observer. This policy applies to all photographers, videographers, staff, contractors, and volunteers, and ensures the proper management, attribution, and usage of GOARCH media assets.
1. Ownership of Digital Assets
1.1 All photographs and videos taken by photographers, videographers and other individuals employed or contracted by GOARCH (the “Digital Assets”) shall be considered “Work for Hire” as defined by applicable copyright laws. The Digital Assets shall be considered to have been created specifically for GOARCH and will be the exclusive property of GOARCH upon creation, subject to the terms outlined herein.
1.2 Upon completion of the work, GOARCH shall own all rights, title, and interest in and to the Digital Assets, and other derivative or related materials or content, including but not limited to:
- Copyrights
- Moral rights
- Reproduction, distribution, and licensing rights
- Any rights to derivative works
- The individual who created the Digital Assets irrevocably waives any claims to ownership, authorship credit, licensing fees and any rights to use or control the use of the Digital Assets except as set forth herein.
2. Attribution and Labeling
2.1 GOARCH shall make best efforts to ensure that all Digital Content used by GOARCH will include appropriate attribution, crediting both the creator and The Orthodox Observer.
2.2 GOARCH, through its Department of Communications, retains sole discretion over whether individual names will appear on published Digital Assets.
3. Exclusive Usage Rights
3.1 All digital assets are designated for the exclusive use of GOARCH in its sole discretion.
4. External Use Requests
4.1 Requests to use GOARCH Digital Assets must be submitted in writing to photorequest@goarch.org.
4.2 The request must include:
- The name of the requesting individual or entity.
- The intended publication or media platform (e.g., print, website, social media).
- A detailed explanation of the proposed use (e.g., news coverage, promotional material, etc.).
4.3 Approval, if granted, will specify the exact permitted use. Digital Assets may only be used for the approved purpose and may not be repurposed or shared further without additional written authorization from the Department of Communications of the GOARCH.
4.4 Any Digital Asset approved for used by an external party must include attribution as specified by GOARCH including by the phrase: “courtesy of The Orthodox Observer.”
5. Exclusivity of Work During Assignments
5.1 Creators of Digital Assets recognize that by virtue of their employment or contract with GOARCH, they will have unique access to events and individuals. Therefore, creators of Digital Assets are prohibited from creating other content simultaneously with the Digital Assets for the purpose of using such content inconsistently with this policy. Exceptions to this rule may only be granted through prior written approval from GOARCH. Requests must be submitted to photorequest@goarch.org in advance of the relevant event.
6. Strict Enforcement
6.1 This policy will be strictly enforced without exception. Non-compliance, including the unauthorized distribution, use, or sale of digital assets, may result in disciplinary action, termination of contracts, and/or legal action.
This policy ensures that GOARCH retains full control over its digital assets and protects the integrity of its publications, messaging, and mission. By adhering to these guidelines, all contributors and collaborators can support the values and goals of The Orthodox Observer and GOARCH.
For questions or clarifications, contact the Department of Communications at communications@goarch.org.
