Photography & Video

Image & Photography Usage

Photography use is encouraged for all Howard University communications, as appropriate. Photos should exhibit decorum consistent with the University’s values.

Photography styles may vary. However, for most marketing, communications, positioning, and capital campaign efforts, use authentic subjects in a natural setting.

Black and white imagery may be used when appropriate, but color is preferred in most cases.

Photography is an important tool for telling the Howard story. There are two elements we use to frame this story: our people and our places.

Photography of people should convey the energy and emotion that makes Howard unique, while images of buildings and places should convey the strength and excellence of our institution.  

Incorrect Usage

Photography should always appear genuine and natural while being of professional, high-resolution quality. When using stock imagery and directing photographers, keep in mind that overly scripted/posed shots in artificial settings should generally be avoided.

Images should always have a positive connotation.

Metaphorical, over-exaggerated, and inauthentic imagery should not be used to represent the Howard brand. 

Universal Elements/Consistencies

Publication Use

  • If a communications piece refers to Howard University as a single unit, use of an institutional signature is required.
  • When more than one University unit is responsible for a communications piece, the more appropriate institutional signature should be displayed more prominently, with the other logo or graphic identifier used as required.
  • The institutional signature or a unit signature is required when a secondary logo is used. See the “Secondary Logos and Graphic Identifiers” section of this manual.
  • The institutional signature or unit signatures must be prominently displayed
    • on the front and back covers of all large published materials designed for external audiences, such as magazines, journals, booklets, and other sizeable publications.
    • on the front page or front panel of smaller communication pieces, such as brochures and newsletters.
    • on all advertisements, displays, flyers, signage, posters, invitations, postcards, and other communication pieces.