Write a Model Release Form

Note: Want to skip the guide and go straight to the free templates? No problem - scroll to the bottom.
Also note: This is not legal advice.

Introduction

When it comes to creating visual content, having a model release form is an essential part of the process in order to ensure that all involved parties are legally protected. A model release is a legally binding document which outlines the rights and responsibilities of the photographer, model, and other participants in the relevant project. For those who create visual material - photographers, models and other creatives - understanding why a model release matters, as well as potential legal implications for not having one in place, is critical.

It is therefore essential that any such form is properly drafted by someone knowledgeable about its complexities; without this level of expertise it can be difficult for photographers or models to secure their rights and interests. My own experience as an expert on such law has seen me witness first-hand the consequences of not having a correctly crafted document; from copyright infringement lawsuits against photographers using images without consent to models being unable to collect payment for their work due to lack of documentation.

When constructing your form accordingly, key provisions need to be outlined; covering matters such as scope of release (i.e., usage permission), responsibility for remuneration payments and details on what rights are conferred upon signing by both photographer and model (including additional compensation eligibility).

A further point worth noting here: while there exist industry standards when it comes to model releases - no two situations will ever be identical; requiring customized forms tailored towards specific needs each time around if full protection is desired. At Genie AI our community template library provides millions of data points which teach our AI what constitutes a market-standard document – while also offering free access so that users can draft and customize documents themselves quickly, easily, and without costly lawyer assistance or fees attached! Our team also provides step-by-step guidance on how best utilize our library; empowering you with knowledge about your options when creating content with visuals today!

Definitions (feel free to skip)

Legal Document: A legal document is a written agreement or statement that is legally binding and enforceable by law. It is used to protect the rights of parties involved in a contract and to clearly outline the terms and conditions of that contract.

Model Release Form: A model release form is a legal document that outlines the rights that a model grants to a photographer or videographer, as well as the photographer or videographer’s responsibilities. It is important to have this form filled out and signed by both parties before any photos or footage is taken.

Professional Designations: Professional designations are titles or certifications that are granted to an individual who has met the necessary qualifications to work in a particular field.

Reproduce and Publish: To reproduce and publish means to make copies of something and to make it available to the public.

Modify and Alter: To modify and alter means to make changes to something in order to make it different from its original form.

Advertising and Promotional Purposes: Advertising and promotional purposes refer to the use of something to promote or advertise a product or service.

Commercial Purposes: Commercial purposes refer to the use of something for the purpose of making a profit.

Territory: Territory refers to a geographic area in which something can be used or applied.

Alterations or Modifications: Alterations or modifications refer to changes made to something in order to make it different from its original form.

Employee or Independent Contractor: An employee is an individual who works for an employer and is paid a salary or wages, while an independent contractor is a person or business that provides services to another person or business.

Contents

• Understanding the Purpose of a Model Release Form
• Defining the Parties Involved
• Establishing the Name of the Model
• Establishing the Name of the Photographer or Videographer
• Outlining the Rights the Model is Granting
• Specifying the Rights the Model is Granting to the Photographer or Videographer
• Establishing the Duration of the Release
• Specifying the Start and End Date of the Release
• Specifying the Use of the Images or Footage
• Defining Where the Photos or Footage Can be Used
• Specifying How the Photos or Footage Can be Used
• Establishing Who is Responsible for the Payment of Fees
• Specifying the Territory for Use of the Images or Footage
• Setting Rules for Image Alteration
• Clarifying Whether the Model is an Employee or Independent Contractor
• Outlining the Rights of the Photographer or Videographer
• Specifying the Rights to Reproduce and Publish the Photos or Footage
• Including a Signature Line and Date
• Establishing the Date the Release is Signed

Get started

Understanding the Purpose of a Model Release Form

• Understand what a model release form is, and why it’s important
• Understand the legal implications of a model release form
• Investigate the laws and regulations in your area relevant to model release forms
• Research the types of photos and images you intend to capture and the industry standards for model release forms

When you can check this off your list:

• When you understand the purpose of a model release form, the legal implications, and the relevant laws and regulations in your area
• When you have researched the types of photos and images you intend to capture and the industry standards for model release forms

Defining the Parties Involved

• Identify the model who will be signing the release form
• List the name of any other parties that will be involved
• Make sure all the required parties are present in the form
• Ensure all parties involved are over 18 years of age
• When all parties are identified, the next step can begin
• Check this step off your list and move on to the next step of establishing the name of the model

Establishing the Name of the Model

• Gather all necessary information from the model, such as their full name, address, and phone number.
• Use the model’s full name in the form, not just their first and last name
• Double check the information provided by the model before moving on to the next step
• Confirm that the name on the form is correct and matches the name of the model
• When you have all the necessary information, you can move on to the next step of establishing the name of the photographer or videographer.

Establishing the Name of the Photographer or Videographer

• Enter the name of the photographer or videographer in the form.
• Obtain the full legal name of the photographer or videographer.
• Enter the full legal name of the photographer or videographer in the form.
• Check that the name entered in the form is correct.
• When the full name of the photographer or videographer is entered and verified, you can move on to the next step.

Outlining the Rights the Model is Granting

• List out each right or use the provided model release form as a reference
• Rights may include but are not limited to: name and likeness, copyright, and publishing rights
• Use simple language that is easy to understand
• If there are multiple rights, list them one by one
• When you are finished, make sure to include a line that allows the model to strike any rights they do not agree to
• When you are done outlining the rights, you can move on to the next step which is specifying the rights the model is granting to the photographer or videographer.

Specifying the Rights the Model is Granting to the Photographer or Videographer

• Determine the scope of rights the model is granting to the photographer or videographer.
• Consider whether the photographer or videographer will be permitted to use the model’s name, photograph, video, or any other visual representation of the model’s likeness.
• Specify whether the photographer or videographer will be able to use the images for commercial purposes.
• Make it clear if the photographer or videographer will be able to use the images in advertising campaigns or on websites.
• Include any other rights which the model is granting to the photographer or videographer in the release form.
• When you have specified the rights the model is granting to the photographer or videographer, you can check this step off your list and move onto the next step.

Establishing the Duration of the Release

• Include either a start and end date for the Model Release Form
• Specify the time limit for which the Model’s permission is granted
• If the permission has no time limit, state that the permission is for an unlimited duration
• Make sure to include the Model’s signature and date to indicate that they agree to the duration of the Model Release Form
• Once all the details of the duration are included and signed by the Model, the step is complete and you can move on to the next step of Specifying the Start and End Date of the Release.

Specifying the Start and End Date of the Release

• Provide the start and end date of the release in the form.
• The start and end date should correspond to the duration of the release as established in the previous step.
• Ensure that the form is signed and dated by both parties.
• You can check this off your list once you have provided the start and end date of the release in the form and ensure that it has been signed and dated by both parties.

Specifying the Use of the Images or Footage

• Brainstorm what kind of uses the photos or footage will be used for including commercial, editorial, web, or social media
• Create a list of the uses the photos or footage will be used for
• Determine how the photos or footage can be used in each of the listed uses, such as whether they can be modified or used in multiple platforms
• Make sure to include any restrictions or limitations to the use of the photos or footage
• Once the list of uses, restrictions, and limitations are determined and included in the release, this step can be checked off and the next one can be started.

Defining Where the Photos or Footage Can be Used

• Identify where the photos or footage can be used, such as in a website, magazine, television program, etc.
• Specify the country, continent, or region where the photos or footage can be used.
• Specify the language in which the photos or footage can be used (if applicable).
• Specify any particular market or audience to which the photos or footage may be used.
• Note any limitations or restrictions specified by the client.
• Once you have listed all the details of where the photos or footage can be used, you can check this off your list and move on to the next step.

Specifying How the Photos or Footage Can be Used

• Decide if the photos or footage can be used for commercial or non-commercial purposes, or both
• Research applicable laws and regulations to ensure you’re not infringing on any copyright laws
• Include language that clearly states the terms of usage, such as whether the photos or footage can be used in perpetuity or for a limited time
• Specify what types of modifications or alterations can be made to the photos or footage
• Specify if the photos or footage can be used in other forms of media, such as on websites, in magazines, or on television

When you’ve made all the necessary decisions about how the photos or footage can be used, you can check this step off your list and move on to the next step: Establishing Who is Responsible for the Payment of Fees.

Establishing Who is Responsible for the Payment of Fees

• Establish who will be responsible for paying any fees associated with the photos or footage being released. This could be the model, the photographer, or a third-party.
• Specify who will be responsible for paying any taxes or other fees associated with the usage of the images or footage.
• Ensure that all parties understand the payment terms and that any fees or taxes will be paid in a timely manner.
• When complete, make sure that all parties have signed the model release form and that the payment terms have been understood.

Once you have established who will be responsible for the payment of fees, you can check this off your list and move on to the next step in the model release form.

Specifying the Territory for Use of the Images or Footage

• Include a line that states the territory in which the images or footage can be used.
• Choose the territory based on the scope of the project. For example, if the project is only for use in the United States, you can include a line that states “United States.” If the project is for use in multiple countries, you can include a line that states something like “Worldwide” or “Worldwide, excluding the United States.”
• Make sure to be clear and specific about the territory for use of the images or footage.
• When you are finished specifying the territory for use of the images or footage, you can move on to the next step.

Setting Rules for Image Alteration

• Decide whether or not the images or footage can be altered or changed in any way
• Specify if the images or footage can be used in any medium, and if so, what those mediums are
• Decide if the images or footage can be used for commercial or non-commercial purposes
• Specify if the images or footage can be used for promotional purposes
• Indicate if the images or footage can be used in any combination with other images, footage, music, or other audio
• Specify any other restrictions on the use of the images or footage

When you have all of the above rules and restrictions decided, you can check this off your list and move on to the next step.

Clarifying Whether the Model is an Employee or Independent Contractor

• Determine whether the model is an employee or independent contractor:
• If the model is an employee, the employer should sign the model release form
• If the model is an independent contractor, the model should sign the form
• Make sure the form clarifies that the model is granting the photographer or videographer rights to the images and video
• Check that the form includes the model’s name, address and contact information
• Check that the form includes a description of the media to which the model is granting rights
• Verify that the form includes a clause that states the model is not entitled to any further compensation

You’ll know when you can check this off your list and move on to the next step when you have verified all of the above bullet points have been included in the form.

Outlining the Rights of the Photographer or Videographer

• Identify the photographer/videographer in the release form
• Outline what rights the photographer/videographer has to the photos/footage
• This should include the right to reproduce, distribute, and publish the photos/footage
• Specify whether the photographer/videographer has the right to edit the photos/footage
• Make sure to include who owns the copyright of the photos/footage

When you have included all of the above information, you can check this step off your list and move on to the next step, which is specifying the rights to reproduce and publish the photos/footage.

Specifying the Rights to Reproduce and Publish the Photos or Footage

• Explain to the subject the rights they are granting to the photographer or videographer in the document
• Outline the specific rights the photographer or videographer has to use the photos or footage taken
• Specify the geographic areas in which the photos or footage can be used
• Describe the level of reproduction and publication rights given to the photographer or videographer
• Note any additional rights for which the subject is granting permission
• Clearly state that the photographer or videographer may use the photos or footage taken for commercial purposes and any other uses

When you have completed this step, you should have outlined the specific rights the photographer or videographer has to use the photos or footage taken. You should also have specified the geographic areas in which the photos or footage can be used and noted any additional rights for which the subject is granting permission.

Including a Signature Line and Date

• Include a signature line at the bottom of the model release form
• Make sure the signature line is followed by a space for the model to sign and date
• Clearly indicate the date format required for the model to sign and date the form
• Once the signature line and date have been added, the model release form is ready for the model to sign and date

Establishing the Date the Release is Signed

• Determine the date the model release form is signed.
• Include the date within the signature line of the form.
• Make sure the date is written in a clear and legal format (e.g. MM/DD/YYYY).
• Once the form is signed and dated, you can check this step off your list and move on to the next step.

FAQ:

Q: What is a model release form?

Asked by James on April 22nd, 2022.
A: A model release form is a legal document that grants photographers and other creatives permission to use the likeness of a person in their work. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties, with the goal of protecting both the model and the photographer or other professional. In most cases, the model needs to sign the form before any images can be used.

Q: What is included in a model release form?

Asked by Emma on April 12th, 2022.
A: A standard model release form should include basic information about the model, such as their name, date of birth, and contact information. It should also include details about what type of images may be used, how they will be used (e.g., whether they can be used for advertising purposes), how long they can be used for, who owns the rights to them, and any other restrictions or conditions that must be met before they can be used.

Q: What are the differences between US and UK model release forms?

Asked by John on March 2nd, 2022.
A: US and UK model release forms are similar in terms of content, but there are some key differences between them. In the US, models are typically required to sign a written agreement regarding their rights to images taken of them; in the UK, models are not typically required to sign an agreement but may have certain rights under copyright law. Additionally, US laws tend to be more restrictive when it comes to privacy rights than those in the UK. Finally, some US states have specific laws regarding how images of minors must be treated and require additional paperwork for any photos taken of a minor; this is not typically required in the UK.

Q: Do I need a model release form for my business?

Asked by Sarah on May 9th, 2022.
A: Whether or not you need a model release form for your business depends on what type of images you are taking and how you plan to use them. If you plan to use images taken of people in any commercial or advertising capacity (for example, if you plan to sell products using images taken of models), then it is generally recommended that you obtain a written model release form from each person before taking any photos or videos of them. A model release form can help protect your business from potential legal issues down the line.

Q: What are the laws regarding model releases in different countries?

Asked by Matthew on February 26th, 2022.
A: The laws regarding model releases vary from country to country. In general, most countries have similar laws when it comes to protecting the rights of models; however, some countries may have more restrictive regulations than others when it comes to copyright protection for images taken of people. Additionally, some countries may require additional paperwork for photos taken of minors or have specific rules about how images taken of people should be treated when it comes to advertising or commercial use. It is important to research your country’s specific laws before taking any photos or videos of people for commercial purposes.

Q: Is a signed model release necessary for every photo I take?

Asked by Jessica on June 15th, 2022.
A: Generally speaking, no – a signed model release is not necessary for every photo you take. However, if you plan to use any photos taken of people in any commercial or advertising capacity (for example, if you plan to sell products using images taken of models), then it is generally recommended that you obtain a written model release form from each person before taking any photos or videos of them. This will help protect your business from potential legal issues down the line.

Q: How do I know if I need a signed model release?

Asked by David on November 28th, 2022.
A: Whether or not you need a signed model release will depend on what type of images you are taking and how you plan to use them. If you plan to use images taken of people in any commercial or advertising capacity (for example, if you plan to sell products using images taken of models), then it is generally recommended that you obtain a written model release form from each person before taking any photos or videos of them. Additionally, some countries may require additional paperwork for photos taken of minors or have specific rules about how images taken of people should be treated when it comes to advertising or commercial use; research your country’s specific laws before taking any photos or videos of people for commercial purposes.

Q: What should I include in my own custom-made model release form?

Asked by Michael on August 4th , 2022.
A: When creating your own custom-made model release form, there are several key elements that should be included in order to protect both yourself and your subject(s). Your form should include basic information about the model(s), such as their name(s), date(s) of birth(s), contact information(s), as well as details about what type(s) of images may be used and how they will be used (e.g., whether they can be used for advertising purposes). Additionally, your custom-made form should outline how long the image(s) can be used for and who owns the rights to them; this helps ensure that both parties understand their rights and responsibilities when it comes to using an image taken by you or another professional photographer/videographer/etc… Finally, make sure to include any other restrictions or conditions that must be met before an image can be used commercially; these vary depending on jurisdiction and industry/sector so make sure to research relevant laws beforehand!

Q: Is there a way I can get access to free generic forms?

Asked by Joseph on May 1st , 2022 .
A: Yes! There are many resources available online where you can access free generic forms related to photography and videography projects – including free templates for model release forms! Many websites offer free versions that provide basic information about what should be included in a standard form; however if your project requires more specific details or clauses then it’s best to seek professional advice from an experienced lawyer who specializes in intellectual property law so that your contracts accurately reflect current legal requirements across different jurisdictions (e.g., US vs UK vs EU).

Q: What happens if I don’t get a signed model release? Asked by Jacob on July 10th , 2022 .

A: If you don’t obtain a signed model release prior to using an image taken with an individual’s likeness without their permission then this could leave your business open to potential legal action down the line – even if the photo was taken with consent at the time! Obtaining written consent via a signed model release ensures that everyone involved understands their rights and obligations related to using an image commercially; this helps protect both yourself and your subject(s) from potential legal issues down the line!

Example dispute

Lawsuits Referencing Model Release

• A plaintiff may raise a lawsuit referencing a model release if they believe they were wrongfully used in the production of media without their consent.
• The plaintiff must prove that they were subjected to exploitation or misrepresentation in the production of the media.
• The plaintiff must also provide evidence that they were not informed of the purpose of the media, or that they were misled as to its purpose.
• The plaintiff must also prove that they were not given adequate compensation for the use of their likeness or image.
• In cases where a settlement is reached, the plaintiff may be awarded damages for the wrongful use of their likeness or image, as well as any other harm that may have been caused by the production of the media.
• Additionally, the court may order the defendant to take steps to ensure that similar occurrences do not happen in the future, such as requiring model releases for all media production.

Templates available (free to use)

Basic Product Release Form For Film Or Tv Footage
Filming Location Release Form
Image Release Form Member Of The Public

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