Respect – Our team are guided by our Working with Children policy which ensures all children are treated with respect.

Under NSW law a Working With Children Check is only required for photographers who work one on one with children, or work with children on a regular basis (see below). Other states are similar.

Some of our photographers do work with children (not through SocialPix) and have a Working With Children Check certificate.

When SocialPix photographers do come in contact with children it is rarely not in the presence of teachers or parents.

SocialPix guidelines for photographers who photograph children

Closed events – eg school formals and graduations, dance studios.

• We work closely with the school or organisation and require parental permission for all students to be photographed.
• SocialPix will seek guidance from the school or organisers regarding any children with societal or physical issues.
• Onsite studios are always open – in full view of parents or teachers.
• Where possible we will ensure that only female assistants will pose and adjust guests in the studio. Male photographers are not to touch any child under 16 years old.

Public events – eg family events organised by local councils or corporate bodies, Santa photos.

• If children can be identified in a photo then the photographer will ask permission from the parent to take the photo.
• Permission is assumed if children are brought into a studio by their parent or guardian.

General guidelines for photographers photographing events involving children

• Always seek advice and follow the guidance and instructions from the Event Manager, Organiser or Teacher in charge regarding interaction with children.
• Ensure permissions have been granted – either for the whole event or individually as needed.
• Avoid being alone with a child in any location that is not in visual contact with another adult unless there is a legitimate reason for doing so for the child’s own safety and welfare.
• Don’t swear or use any language that is derogatory towards others in the presence of colleagues or customers including children.
• Photos of children or young persons (i.e. under the age of 18 years) are not to be used on EventPix or the photographer’s website or social media without the permission of the school or parents.

Defining Working with Children (NSW)

Section 3 of the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Acts 1988 (NSW) defines a child as a person who is under the age of 16 years and a young person as a person who is aged 16 years or above but who is under the age of 18 years.

The Working with Children Check (WWCC) is a requirement for anyone who works or volunteers in child-related work in NSW.

Child-related work (including voluntary work) is:

• providing services for children and young people under 18
• where the work normally involves being face to face with children
• where contact with children is more than incidental to the work.

WWCC is not required by a tradesperson (eg photographer) who may incidentally come into contact with children but is not working with the children.

Source: Who needs a Check? NSW Govt website