Am I a DBS checked Photographer?

For your own of mind

When enlisting the services of a photographer you often do not know the person that you are hiring and this could pose some questions. That is why for peace of mind and transparency I am always happy to share a copy of my DBS certificate with any client, no matter if they are a business, charity, organisation or an individual.

DO PHOTOGRAPHERS LEGALLY REQUIRE A DBS CHECK?

According to the UK Disclosure & Barring Service a DBS check is only required for photographers who regularly work with vulnerable children and adults in schools, nurseries or care homes.

In general, outside of the above, there is no legal requirement for a portrait or wedding photographer, for example to be DBS checked.

WHAT LEVEL OF DBS CHECK IS LEVEL IS APPROPRIATE FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS?

There are three levels of DBS Check available – Basic, Standard, and Enhanced. The level of check that a photographer needs depends on where they work and how they are working with. We’ll explore that in more detail in a moment, but first let’s take a quick look at what is involved in each type of DBS Check.

Basic DBS Check – highlights any unspent convictions and conditional cautions on an individual’s criminal record. Anybody aged 16 or over can request a basic check.
Standard DBS Check – highlights spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings. Standard checks must be submitted by an employer or registered body on the applicants behalf.
Enhanced DBS Check – highlights all of the same details as the Standard DBS Check, plus any relevant details that are stored in the records of local police forces. Standard checks must be submitted by an employer or registered body on the applicants behalf.

In general, the role of a photographer does not fit the criteria needed to warrant a Standard or Enhanced DBS Check, unless they are working in a regulated activity or a location or establishment that requires one.

All photographers can get a Basic DBS Check if they wish or if a client requires one and they can apply for it themselves, as long as they are aged 16 years or more.

SO WHY HAVE I BEEN CHECKED?

Being totally honest I have nothing to hide. I have undertaken a Basic DBS check for your own peace of mind and transparency of myself as a person. I’ve always run this business with a strong degree of honesty, integrity and openness so if seeing my DBS certificate gives you some peace of mind when hiring me, I have no problem with that at all.

HOW CAN I SEE YOUR CERTIFICATE?

Once you are booked in, just ask and I’ll organise for you to see a copy of the printed certificate prior to your photoshoot.