Photo Release Forms

Hey,

I have a question about Photo Release Forms.

Now, I always get the parents permission before using a photo of a child, but have never made them sign an actual form. I just let them know it might end up on my website or on a poster board for display purposes. They always have said, sure, no problem and that was that. However, I'm getting paranoid that they could change their mind and then I could get sued or something (heh...time for that Liability Insurance to kick in)...

Do you all use signed forms...all the time, sometimes...never?? What does your form say if you do use them and last but not least, how do you work something like that into a super busy que!!

Thanks for any advice!

Heather

http://www.shannonfennell.com/ModelRelease.doc

This is a link to a Word Document. It is the model release that I use.

I never use a photo unless I have a signed release form... actually I never TAKE a photo unless I have a signed release form! Saves me having to figure out and match up photos with forms later. If I have taken a photo I must have had the form signed!

Thank you. I think I need to get a copy (if that's ok) and start having my models sign it. Edited to my needs of course! Thanks again!

I'm sure this is something to use at smaller events when you actually have time to take pics....those big events are usually so moving so fast I forget to take pee brakes...much less pics! heh

Do you have a dedicated photographer or just work it in yourself?

Thanks again!

The only event in the last couple years where photos got taken is when I have an assistant with me that isn't actually painting!! One festival I do every year is where this happens!! Naomi gets the form signed, takes the photos while I paint, then again when they are finished... I don't have to do anything except paint.

Other than that I do painting sessions solely for the purpose of photography...

Shannon Fennell wrote:http://www.shannonfennell.com/ModelRelease.doc

This is a link to a Word Document. It is the model release that I use.

I never use a photo unless I have a signed release form... actually I never TAKE a photo unless I have a signed release form! Saves me having to figure out and match up photos with forms later. If I have taken a photo I must have had the form signed!

I would be really interested in using this forum, but when I open the file, I get "Not Found." I would really appreciate it if anyone has this to download, or if anyone could email it to me. Thanks!

Where can I find a copy of the photo release? I try downloading and I got an error message.

http://www.shannonfennell.com/ModelRelease.pdf

Do you have Adobe Reader? This is a PDF file.

I have one for normal model work, but that is more for the photographers signing that I also have the rights to the photos, when they are delivered and so.

Not when out on events, but it is also very rare that I have someone to takes photos there. When, they just ask. Some say no, most say yes, and are even very proud to be asked =)

I asked my lawyery friend about this one a while bcck. This is how I understand it (so I am open to correction).
Anyone in a public area can have their picture taken without permission (like security cameras). I think if those images made money (or used to make money) the model gets a cut (i.e. Open to lawsuit).
So the way I understand it is, you don't need a contract to take the pic. Verbal parent's permission is good enough, and courteous. BUT... If you sell the image (like art) or use it to advertise (examples of your work on board or website) you could get sued. I guess with advertising, it would be like a percentage of your earnings. But that is rare, I guess. Better to be safe.
Like Sharon. Having said all of that, I haven't used any contracts. I should start.