Every day, members of the public and freelance photographers send us photos and videos of incidents across Wiltshire and the South West.
We welcome your contributions. They help us report quickly and accurately on breaking news. However, your safety and the law comes first.
Where this applies
These terms apply to anyone who sends content to Wiltshire 999s through any platform, including but not limited to: this website, email, Facebook, X and WhatsApp.
By submitting content to us, you confirm that:
• You own the copyright and have the legal right to share the content
• The content was obtained lawfully
• Wiltshire 999s may use, publish and distribute the content without payment
• You remain the copyright holder
Please note: In some cases, publishing a contributor’s name could place them at risk or attract unwanted attention. For this reason, we do not automatically add a credit.
We will use our discretion when deciding whether a credit is appropriate. If you would like to be credited, you must clearly state this when submitting your content.
If you are unsure about any of the above, contact us before submitting.
Your safety
Do not put yourself or others at risk to obtain footage. Only take photographs or video from public land. Do not enter privately owned property without permission.
You must never enter an emergency service cordon. Cordon areas are in place for safety and operational reasons.
You must not interfere with police, fire or ambulance personnel while they are working.
Where possible, keep your distance from the incident and use your camera’s zoom.
If you are at a scene and unsure about what is appropriate, call our newsdesk on 07794 802 940 for guidance.
Understanding your rights
You are legally allowed to take photographs and film in public places.
“Police have no power to stop the filming or photographing of incidents or police personnel”, College of Policing guidance states.
It adds: “It is for the media to determine what is published or broadcast, not the police.
“Once an image has been recorded, the police have no power to seize equipment, or to delete or confiscate images or footage, without a court order.”
This applies when you are filming or photographing from a public place. If you are approached by an officer, video or audio record your interaction.
Responsibility
Wiltshire 999s does not accept responsibility for individuals who choose to gather content for publication. You do so at your own risk.
We strongly recommend that freelance photographers obtain appropriate insurance cover.
