Film, photograph and audio recording at Magdalene College

Magdalene College’s historic buildings and picturesque grounds provide a distinctive setting for documentaries, fashion shoots, radio broadcasts, podcasts, and a wide range of other creative projects. 

The College is a place for our community to live, study, work, and socialise. The College carefully considers requests for filming, photography, and recording. We recognise the value and opportunities these activities can bring, but they must be balanced with the needs of our Members and the day-to-day life of the College community.

Applications should be submitted as far in advance as possible. Except for requests from news media organisations, a minimum lead time of ten working days is required.

While the College aims to be flexible where possible, applications made at short notice may not be approved. This is due to the need to assess availability, consult with relevant departments, and ensure there are no clashes with College events and activities.

Permission is less likely to be granted during Full Term, particularly during examination periods, or when major College events are taking place.

• The Filming, Photography and Audio Recording Policy applies to anyone wishing to film, take photographs, fly a drone, or record audio on the main Magdalene College site and its properties. This includes students, Fellows, staff, conference and accommodation guests, contractors, visitors, Members, and members of the public.
• The Filming, Photography and Audio Recording Fee Scale, should be read before submitting an application.
• The Filming, Photography and Audio Recording Application Form must be completed for all filming, photography, drone operations, and audio recording that require prior permission from the College. All relevant information should be included within the application.

Organisations undertaking filming, photography, or audio recording at the College are responsible for obtaining all necessary permissions and consents from individuals who may appear in recordings or images, and for ensuring compliance with all relevant legal and regulatory requirements. 

The College provides a perimeter notice template and a model consent and release form for organisations that do not have their own documentation. Organisations using these templates are responsible for reviewing and adapting them to ensure compliance with their own policies and all applicable legal requirements. 

For general information about filming in Cambridge, please visit Cambridge City Council's filming page and Meet Cambridge's filming and photography page.