Pixtus - Photography Forum, Photographers, Photo Tips

HDKat · **Model Release/Client release -** 08-09-2007, 03:06 PM

Ok here is my question...

Do you have to get everyone who walks into your studio to sign a release form if you are wanting to use them on your website? I am currently building my portfolio for my website and I am going through a few years of pics and I do not have any release. How do you work them into your client discussion? Do you have them sign something prior to taking their picture? If the image is copywrited to you why then can you not use the image freely as you wish?

Answers to any or all of the above would be much appreciated.

Ph0t0g · 08-09-2007, 06:05 PM

Kat,

I always get a release from anyone that I plan on using on the website or any other promotional material. I find that all have been happy to sign, it makes them feel special since you want to use their image.

As far as legalities go, its not an issue of copyright, the issue is using someone else's image to promote your services. It falls under advertising if I am correct and you have to have a persons permission to use their images for that.

At least that was my understanding of the law.

bondarnes · 08-09-2007, 06:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by HDKat

Do you have to get everyone who walks into your studio to sign a release form if you are wanting to use them on your website? I am currently building my portfolio for my website and I am going through a few years of pics and I do not have any release. How do you work them into your client discussion? Do you have them sign something prior to taking their picture? If the image is copywrited to you why then can you not use the image freely as you wish?

The easiest way to handle this is to make this all a part of your sales agreement. The form that we use to write up an order has about three paragraphs at the bottom (the fine print) that cover payment policies, copyright, and use of images for studio promotion. We can't process their order until they sign the order form. If they object to us using their image we cross that out and initial it. 99.67% of our clients just sign it and never say a word. The few who object are usually too ugly to use anyway.