The MFTHBA Board of Directors recently approved and posted a photographer and videographer policy for MFTHBA events.  The following frequently asked questions (FAQ) list has been put together to assist visitors in better understanding the purpose and intent of the policy.  The policy is available HERE.

Why was the policy implemented?

The MFTHBA has long had a policy that prohibited any photographer or videographer from selling pictures or videos taken during MFTHBA sponsored events.  Also, the MFTHBA prohibits the selling of any items on the MFTHBA grounds without a vendor contract.  For several years, the Board has been made aware of individuals violating these policies.  It is not unusual to see individuals offering pictures or videos for sale from the events or for individuals to be approached at the shows offering these services.

The MFTHBA Board of Directors has discussed the best way to implement the MFTHBA policies for several years.  Previously, the Board opted to utilize a less formal approach of reminding individuals about these policies.  This has included reminding visitors of the need to respect the individuals that have been hired to perform these duties by printing the policies in programs, announcements, and social media.

Even with these efforts, the problem has persisted and has compromised the MFTHBA’s ability to hire show staff to perform these duties.  Therefore, the MFTHBA Board felt increased policing of the policy was required.  To accomplish this, a more defined policy was required to assist security, staff, and volunteers in managing the requirements.  A similar policy has been discussed by the board since 2015.

Can I take pictures of my family?

The policy is not intended to impact individuals taking videos and photos on phones and personal cameras. We understand that some individuals have professional grade equipment as described in the policy that they utilize to take quality photographs and videos of their family.  If this applies to you, simply send a request to the MFTHBA providing your name, the reason for the request, and details on how the materials will be used. If approved, the MFTHBA Board will provide written approval.

We do remind individuals that regardless of your reason for taking photographs or videos, we ask all visitors to respect the professionalism of the hired professionals.  Individuals should not interfere with the responsibilities of the show personnel nor compromise their ability to sell photos or videos.

Why does the policy include a description of equipment?

To assist security, staff, and volunteers in implementing the policy, it was necessary to clearly define what type of equipment was considered professional.  Without this provision, all individuals taking photographs or videos would need to be questioned to determine their reason.  The description utilized in our policy is similar to descriptions utilized by other events.

This equipment can be used on the grounds with written approval from the Board of Directors.  If you would like to use this type of equipment on the grounds, simply send a request to the MFTHBA providing your name, the reason for the request, and details on how the materials will be used. If approved, the MFTHBA Board will provide written approval.

Why is there an MFTHBA Use policy included?

The MFTHBA Use policy applies to professional photographers and videographers that receive permission from the MFTHBA Board of Directors to take photos or videos on the grounds.  This policy is similar to the policy in the contracts of those individuals hired to provide these services.

The MFTHBA does not sell photos and videos provided by professionals.  These items are used to assist the MFTHBA in marketing and promoting our breed.  This is done with appropriate credit provided to the professional.

The MFTHBA Use policy does not apply to individuals taking photos.  However, it has been our experience that Missouri Fox Trotting Horse enthusiasts that are hobby photographers are always willing to provide the MFTHBA photos to help with promotional efforts.  This support is important as we all work toward promoting our amazing breed.

What is the process to get permission? 

If you are a professional photographer or videographer or plan to utilize professional equipment as described in the policy, please provide a request in writing to the MFTHBA office.  This can be done in person, by fax, or email.  The request should include your name, reason for the request, and details on how the materials will be used.  If approved, you will receive a letter by email from the MFTHBA providing you permission.  We recommend you keep a copy of this approval with you while utilizing your equipment.  This will assist those in monitoring the policy during the show.

If you are taking pictures or videos using equipment not discussed in the policy, you do not need to take any action.   We do ask that all visitors respect the professionalism of the hired professionals.  Individuals should not interfere with the responsibilities of the photographer nor compromise their ability to sell photos or videos.