Cookies Policy
Last updated: 6 October 2026
What Cookies and Similar Technologies Are
Cookies are small text files placed on your device when you visit a website. They allow the site to remember actions and preferences over time. Similar technologies include web beacons, pixels and local storage objects that can store or access information on your device. These files can contain data such as unique identifiers, browsing history details, device type, operating system and IP address. They do not contain personal information such as your name or email address unless you have provided it elsewhere on the site.
Why the Site Uses Cookies
buzzlightup uses cookies and similar technologies to ensure the website functions correctly, to improve performance and to provide relevant features for users interested in studio production resources. Without these technologies some parts of the site would not operate as intended. The use of cookies helps maintain secure sessions, remember user settings and gather aggregated information about how visitors interact with content on studio equipment setup, camera operation, lighting techniques and live production workflows.
Categories of Cookies We Use
We categorise cookies into strictly necessary, functional, analytics or performance, advertising or targeting and social-media types. Strictly necessary cookies enable core functions such as page navigation and access to secure areas. Functional cookies remember choices like language preferences or display settings. Analytics cookies collect information about how pages are used so we can measure and improve site performance. Advertising cookies may be used to deliver content relevant to studio production topics. Social-media cookies support sharing features if available.
First-Party versus Third-Party Cookies
First-party cookies are set directly by buzzlightup and relate only to activity on this domain. Third-party cookies are set by external providers such as analytics services or content delivery networks. Both types may be present. First-party cookies are primarily used for essential site operations while third-party cookies often support performance measurement or additional functionality. You can control both types through your browser settings or the site consent manager.
Session versus Persistent Cookies
Session cookies exist only while your browser is open and are deleted when you close it. Persistent cookies remain on your device for a set period or until manually removed. Session cookies are typically used for temporary functions such as maintaining login status during a visit. Persistent cookies may store preferences for up to twenty-four months depending on their purpose. Retention periods are reviewed regularly to ensure they remain appropriate under UK data protection rules.
Data Handled and Purpose of Each Category
Strictly necessary cookies handle minimal data such as session identifiers to keep the site operational. Functional cookies store preference information such as video player settings relevant to live show workflows. Analytics cookies record aggregated usage statistics including page views and navigation paths through sections on lighting and sound equipment. Advertising cookies may capture interest signals related to television production topics. Each category serves a distinct purpose and is limited to the data necessary for that function. No category collects more information than required.
Legal Basis for Using Cookies under UK Law
Under the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations together with the UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018, strictly necessary cookies can be used without consent because they are essential for the service you request. All other categories require your consent before they are activated. buzzlightup obtains consent through a site-wide cookie banner that allows granular choices. You may accept all, reject non-essential cookies or select specific categories. Consent is recorded and can be withdrawn at any time without affecting the lawfulness of processing based on consent before withdrawal.
How the Consent Manager Works
The consent manager appears on first visit and allows you to accept or reject categories via clear toggles. Your choices are stored for twelve months and apply across visits. To change preferences later you can reopen the manager through a link in the site footer or by clearing site data in your browser. Rejecting non-essential cookies means certain features such as detailed performance tracking will not operate, but core site access remains available.
Browser-Level Controls and Consequences
Most browsers allow you to block or delete cookies through settings menus. Blocking all cookies will prevent essential functions such as staying logged in or completing forms. Deleting cookies regularly may require you to re-enter preferences each visit. These controls operate independently of the site consent manager and may override choices made on the banner. Disabling cookies entirely can reduce site usability especially for interactive content about studio production.
International Transfers and Privacy Policy Reference
Some third-party providers may process data outside the United Kingdom. In such cases appropriate safeguards such as standard contractual clauses are used to protect your information. Further details on data handling practices appear in the Privacy Policy which you should read alongside this document.
Policy Changes and Contact Route
We review this policy periodically and update it when practices or regulations change. The current version date appears at the top. For questions about cookies or to exercise rights under data protection law please use the contact form on the Contacts page or write to [email protected], Beaconsfield Studios, Station Road, Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire, HP9 1LG or call 01494 671234. We aim to respond within one month of receiving a request.