How to Use Legal Release Forms in Photography

Any photographer who plans to sell their images should arm themselves with the proper legal release forms. Any people who appear in a photograph, whether professional models or not, should sign a release for the photographer to use their image.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Determine if you will use the photograph for commercial purposes. If you think that you might use the photo for profit, even in the distant future, obtain a release at the time of the shoot.
2. Obtain a copy of a legally binding model or property release. Find samples of these documents online, or you can take the safer route and rely on a legal expert or attorney to supply the proper forms.
3. Make certain that your model (or their parents if they are a minor), understand the purpose of the legal release form. Avoid deceiving or misleading the models or property owners during the release process. To avoid problems in the future, make sure they fully understand its contents and purpose.
4. Assure that the model or the legal parent or guardian signs the release in your presence. It is a good idea to have a third party witness sign the document as well.
5. File the release form along with the job information. In the event of problems after the publication or sale of your image, the release is easy to locate and is available to prove your right to publish or sell the image.

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