Model Release Form

What is a Model Release Form?

A model release form is a legal document between the photographer and the person. The model release form establishes a contract between the photographer and a model, defines how and where photographs may be used and the basis of any remuneration. It protects both the photographer and the model in the event of any dispute. If you are photographing a property, you may need a property release form signed by the owner of the property. The release form is the written form of their permission allowing you to publish their image on your website, blog, and marketing materials. It doesn’t only apply to professional models, but to anyone who is being photographed.

The model release form is useful:

if you are a business seeking to use an individual’s image for commercial purposes
if you are an individual whose image will be used for commercial purposes
if you are the parent or legal guardian of a child whose image will be used for commercial purposes
when the individual is a member of the public
where the individual is clearly identifiable, whether they are on their own, or in a small group
only for individuals based in England or Wales

The model release form covers:

who the parties are the material will be published
whether a photograph or video footage the purposes for which the material will be published
storage of the material to areas outside of the UK
transfer of the material to areas outside of the UK
storage of the material to areas outside of the EEA
transfer of the material to areas outside of the EEA

What’s a model release letter?

A model release letter is a letter by which the subject of a photograph or video footage gives permission to use and publish their image. It is the contract under which one party agrees on the use of their image by another party.

Why do I need a model release letter?

If you wish to use an individual’s image, it is good practice to require them to sign a model release letter. By doing so, the model waives its rights in relation to the released image. This, therefore, protects you from potential claims in relation to the use of the individual’s image further down the line.

How can I use the released image?

In a model release, the model grants the business permission to use the content in one form or another, for example on websites, blogs, marketing materials or printed publications. This means the said image can be edited, copied, modified, exhibited, published or distributed without any right to inspection or compensation for the model.

Can images be exempt from the data protection regime?

Yes – certain images are unlikely to contain personal data, for example: Where individuals are incidentally included in an image or are not in focus; When an image features someone who passed away; or When an image is being used for journalistic, informational, literary, artistic or research purposes.

jolanta putnina photography

Model Release Form