Photography

Two Minnesota State Mankato students working with a professor in a lab. Watching a robotic arm and taking notes on an ipdad.

Good photography is essential to communicating Minnesota State University, Mankato’s beauty, personality and spirit. Marketing and Communications coordinates regular photo shoots to build and maintain a digital asset management system that includes photos representing all aspects of the University; photos from other units may also be submitted for inclusion in the photo library.

Photo Library

The images in the University’s digital asset management system are available for use by the university community in both digital and print communications, marketing and other promotional materials.

Access to the University’s image library is protected by StarId and password.

Photo Library- Photoshelter

Photo Inspiration

When shooting University photography, the goal is to represent inspired action with imagery of our community engaged in meaningful activities in classrooms and labs, on campus, in the field and in the community.

Images should be authentic and honest.
Stylistically, they should be bright but not overly saturated.
Shallow depth of field and shoot through add a natural impression and help direct the viewer’s attention to the most important element of the photo.

Student teacher sitting on the floor in a library reading a book to four elementary aged students

Students sitting in a booth at the Dining Center eating and Laughing

To illustrate a clear emphasis on high-impact learning, a key component of on-brand photography is to highlight real contextual settings—both inside and outside the classroom. Generous use of shoot-through, as well as interesting angles and perspectives, enhance authenticity.

Students in a ceramic student. close up of a female student working with the clay on the wheet

Two female students with white coats working with samples in a science lab

Professor of Finance in the finance lab with a student explaining a concept on the white board. Student taking notes

Portraits and profile photography should be shot in relevant, contextual settings. Subjects should be positioned large in the frame as the clear focal point with a confident expression. Subjects should also be camera aware to create a direct personal connection with the viewer.

Picture of a smiling man sitting with others working on a project.

Female student wearing a backpack and holding books, smiling at the camera as she walks to class

Woman holding books smiling at the camera

Photo Releases

All students, faculty and staff included in photos that will be used to promote the University on the website, in print publications or other marketing materials should sign the approved Minnesota State media release form.

Print Media Release Form

Digital Media Release Form

Contact University Marketing and Communications with any questions about photo releases.

Photo Shoots

University Marketing and Communications coordinates regular campus photo shoots. To recommend specific subjects, locations or content for those shoots, please email brand@mnsu.edu