Marketing and Communications

Brand-aligned Images

We use a wide range of imagery to showcase our unique people, culture and location. To align with USC’s brand platform, images and video should be:

• Empowering: the subject is the hero
• Emotional: expressive and joyful
• Candid: real, authentic and in the moment
• Engaged: hands-on
• Uplifting: supportive and nurturing
• Inclusive: conveys a sense of unity and belonging
• Vibrant: sunny, bright open space, warm, welcoming
• Unexpected possibilities: show broad experiences in and out of the classroom
• Expansive: highlight vast horizons, network opportunities and possibilities

Tips for creating brand-aligned imagery

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• Focus on the faces.

  Aim to feature faces and facial expressions. Showing our students helps images to feel emotional and engaged. Select imagery that shares expressions of joy and wonder.

• Keep it candid. 

  Imagery should feel real and authentic. When possible, avoid overly staged images.

• Capture collaboration.

  Try to capture small groups of students, faculty and staff working together. Hands-on and engaged images reflect the uplifting and inclusive nature of university.

• Showcase scenes inside and outside the classroom.

  While plenty of imagery will feature classrooms and labs, make an effort to get out onto campus and feature campus beauty and experiential learning opportunities. A sunny day on the Horseshoe or a visit to an internship site help show our audience the full scope of a USC education.

Example Gallery