The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has introduced new guidelines for camera operators covering female athletics, aiming to prevent the sexualization of athletes. The recommendations follow discussions with athletes and address concerns about camera angles and editing choices that can lead to inappropriate imagery.
These guidelines include specific directives such as avoiding low camera angles that could capture revealing views of athletes, particularly in events like the high jump or pole vault. Executive director of EBU Sport, Glen Killane, stated that the sexualization of women athletes through selective camera angles and editing choices remains a significant concern across many sports broadcasts. He cited lingering shots on bodies, low-angle cameras, and excessive slow-motion replays that lack technical or storytelling purpose as observed issues in current media coverage.
The EBU, which partners with the BBC and broadcasts to audiences in 57 countries, could implement these new guidelines at the upcoming European Athletics Championships in Birmingham, scheduled to begin on August 10. However, events like the Diamond League, also broadcast on the BBC, are not part of the EBU's coverage and may not necessarily adhere to the new recommendations.