Model Releases for Child Photography?

[ryanriley]

I've got a couple of my first real non-family, paid shoots tentatively scheduled over the next month or so. I know I will need to get model releases signed, especially since one of the goals is to obtain images for my portfolio. That said, one of the areas I tend to specialize in is natural light child photography, typically outdoors and typically taken while just letting kids play and be themselves. As a (overprotective) father of a one-year old daughter, I realize that the model release form for situations such as this must be worded very carefully and must have minimal legalese to not be too "official" and threatening... Does anyone have experience in getting model releases signed by parents of younger kids?

[rememberme]

I shoot for a catalog that requires children to be in the images. I have a very simple model release to be signed; only two paragraphs. I think I got the verbiage from doing research on the Internet. I've only had a couple of parents that were hesitant about signing but I find this out up front. If they are uncomfortable with it, I ask them not to sign the form because it seems to me that they are more likely to cause problems later. I think that is a matter of trust that you must build with your clients. Many parents are thrilled and flattered that you want to use their pictures. We (parents) love to show-off our kids! :)

I usually give the family a free 8x10 for allowing me to use their pictures.

PM me if you want me to share my release with you, ok?

Have a great day! :)

Jodi.