Photography & Videography Permission Form

Qatar National Library (QNL) welcomes individuals and institutions wishing to film and photograph inside its premises. Visitors using the following equipment must obtain prior approval from the Library’s Communications Department:

• DSLR camera with tripod
• DSLR camera with stabilizers
• Professional camcorder
• Aerial filming with drones or cranes
• Other equipment (e.g., microphones, tripods, lights, reflectors, backdrops, etc.)

If you wish to film or photograph outside the Library’s premises, including its exteriors, please follow the steps outlined below to secure the necessary approvals:

1. Obtain permission from Qatar Foundation Communications Directorate for filming and photography. To submit a request, click here.
2. After receiving approval from Qatar Foundation, complete the Library’s filming and photography permission form.

Purpose of Filming

Filming at Qatar National Library is strictly for non-commercial purposes unless explicitly agreed upon in advance. The content produced should primarily focus on the Library itself, its collections, services, programs and events. Filming unrelated to the Library's mission may be denied to preserve its identity and integrity.

Request Limitations

• The Library may set limits on the number of filming requests accepted per month, quarter, or year to ensure accessibility.
• Requests from media outlets or organizations aligned with the Library’s mission and strategic goals will be prioritized.

Filming Hours and Locations

• Filming Hours: Filming is only permitted from 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM. Requests must adhere to this schedule to minimize disruption.
• Filming Locations: Specific areas of the Library will be available for filming. Exclusive use of popular spaces will be avoided unless necessary, in order to maintain the Library’s open access to the public.

Filming Personnel and Supervision

• A manageable number of crew members is allowed. Large crews must be approved in advance.
• All crew members must be registered and approved to ensure adherence to the Library’s rules and guidelines.
• Photography/filming of visitors, students, teachers or staff will require the requesting party to obtain written consent from each individual.
• Consent forms from individuals being photographed/filmed must be shared with the Library’s communications team through qnlinfo@qnl.qa.

Copyright and Usage

• Ownership and usage rights of footage filmed at QNL must be clearly outlined. All footage shot within the Library must be shared with QNL, and external distribution of the footage is subject to approval.
• Attribution must be provided to QNL in any publicly released media, including social media, documentaries and publications. The final copy of any footage should be submitted to QNL for approval before publication.

Behavior and Conduct

• Filming should not disrupt Library operations. Crews must maintain appropriate noise levels, avoid blocking aisles or walkways with filming equipment and behave respectfully toward visitors.
• The filming of Library members should not interfere with their activities, and crews should not request members to remain silent for audio capture purposes.
• Filming should not be used for commercial promotion unless prior approval is granted.
• As a general rule, books should not be moved from the shelves for filming/photography without prior consent. However, if necessary, a few books may be used and should be left on a table afterwards for re-shelving by a librarian.
• No individual should be filmed without their explicit consent. Always be mindful of privacy and avoid capturing identifiable faces or personal activities in any footage.
• Models or individuals being filmed should wear attire that is respectful of the Library’s environment and culture. Clothing should be modest and appropriate, ensuring that it aligns with the Library's values and maintains a professional, welcoming atmosphere for all patrons.

Equipment and Logistics

• All equipment must be used in a manner that does not disrupt the Library’s operations. Loud or heavy equipment should be avoided.
• Temporary installations, props or set designs that alter the Library's physical space require prior approval.
• A list of all equipment, including cameras, lighting (with wattage), and additional equipment (tripods, weights, etc.), should be submitted in advance.

Safety and Security

• Filming entities must provide proof of insurance to cover potential damage to Library property or injuries during filming.
• All crew members must undergo security screening before entering the premises to ensure safety and mitigate risks.

Special Considerations

• Filming should not block access to key spaces for extended periods. Areas must remain open to the public.
• If minors are involved, parental consent and proper supervision must be ensured.

Advance Notice and Cancellation Policy

• If the Library is to be used only as a location for filming, two weeks’ notice is required. If special arrangements are requested from the Library, at least one month’s notice is required. The same applies for cancelation requests.

Enforcement and Violations

• Any violations of the guidelines and the Library’s terms and conditions will result in penalties ranging from potential bans on future filming to fines for damages.
• Serious violations may result in legal action.

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Important Notes

• All crew members must have a valid Qatar ID or passport and their details should match the information provided in the online form.
• All crew members must check-in at the Library’s loading bay, register with the security desk and receive temporary filming and photography passes. These passes must be returned to the security desk upon departure.
• All equipment must be brought in through the Library’s loading bay.
• Equipment will be inspected on the day of the shoot to ensure it matches the submitted list. 
• All requests, whether logistical or technical, should be channeled through the Library’s communications’ representative on the day of filming.
• The Library reserves the right to refuse any request.

By adhering to these guidelines and obtaining the necessary approvals, you help ensure that filming at Qatar National Library is conducted in a safe, respectful, and efficient manner.