Filming at Messe Frankfurt

A strict starting position

The site regulations for Messe Frankfurt, dated September 2020 in the copy published by a fair held there, set a strict default. They state that devices which can produce photos or film are prohibited throughout the exhibition grounds. Filming, photographing or sketching exhibited goods is permissible only in exceptional cases with Messe Frankfurt's written consent.

The enforcement language is equally firm. Where there is reasonable suspicion, Messe Frankfurt may confiscate and destroy material without compensation. It can also expel people who break the rules, and bar them temporarily or permanently. Separately, it reserves the right to permit or prohibit the activities of third parties acting for contracting parties, which is how a hired crew would be seen.

These rules cover the grounds, including Kap Europa and Rebstock. Check that your fair has not issued a newer version.

How a fair can change the picture

In practice, organisers often set out what is allowed. CPHI Frankfurt's 2025 policy is a helpful example, because it allows exhibitors and professional photographers to photograph or film their own stand without separate approval, within limits.

• General panoramic and multi-stand shots were reserved for the organiser's crews.
• All broadcast filming and interviews needed advance written permission from the organiser.
• Crews had to be able to show their letter or email of authority on request, or stop work.
• Media partners were limited to light handheld kit, with no tripods, lighting rigs or boom mics, because of an exclusive video partner's rights.

Drones vary fair to fair

Frankfurter Buchmesse's house rules prohibit drones and similar flying objects in the halls and outdoor areas. By contrast, the ISH 2027 fact sheet says photography or filming by unmanned aerial vehicle is subject to approval and safety conditions, with requests sent to standapproval@messefrankfurt.com. Read the specific fair's document and do not assume one answer applies to the next.

Build-up and stand rules for a shoot

The ISH 2027 fact sheet shows the kind of operational details that influence a shoot. From 15:00 on the final set-up day, work may only continue inside stands and the aisles must be clear, so aisle shots of a finished stand may be difficult at that point. Monitors for demonstrations must stay at least 2 metres from the aisle, and the noise limit is 70 dB at the stand boundary, with a contractual penalty of 1,000 euros for breaches. Dismantling is banned before the fair ends, so a final-day wrap should not begin early.

Power and stand services are arranged through each fair's service channels. Your exhibitor documentation will list the forms and deadlines.

On the grounds

Entry on foot or by vehicle needs valid authorisation, such as set-up and dismantling passes, at defined times and in defined areas. Messe Frankfurt can check the boots and cargo areas of vehicles and search bags, so have crew documents and permission letters to hand. A 30 km/h limit applies, and e-scooters and similar vehicles may not be used in buildings or outdoor event areas during events.

Fairs and using official images

Fairs at the site include ISH, Frankfurter Buchmesse, CPHI Frankfurt in its 2025 edition, and Optatec. If you need hall shots you cannot film, Messe Frankfurt's press material may be used by registered exhibitors to promote their presence, under its terms, with a credit, though commercial use needs prior written consent.

Fame Crew can source a vetted local videographer or photographer in Frankfurt. Send us your written permission or your organiser's policy so we can match the brief and kit to what has been approved.