Use our photo release form to request consent to publish someone’s image.
Updated September 20, 2023
Written by Sara Hostelley | Reviewed by Brooke Davis
A photo release form is a legally binding document between two parties in which one party (the releasor) consents to let the other party (the releasee) use their image for commercial or personal use. By signing this form, the releasor also gives up any claims they may have against the releasee regarding the use and publication of any images.
Within this form, the releasor can request royalties or payment for the photos and offer the rights to future use of the images. Ownership rights to the images are contingent on both payment and an authorized release form when payment is involved.
A photo release form is necessary when using photographs or videos for commercial purposes, such as in brochures or on websites. It grants permission from the individuals featured in them, which is crucial because individuals have the exclusive right to control the commercial use of their name, image, likeness, and other aspects of their identity, known as the right of publicity [1] .
Anyone using such content for profit requires a release to do so legally. A signed photography release form provides this permission while safeguarding against future challenges regarding the use of these materials for profit.
A photo release isn’t necessary for photos taken in public places. Capturing images in public areas without a release form is legally allowed.
Without a signed photo consent form, a business may be limited in how it can advertise itself or run the risk of being sued in court for improper use of a person’s likeness.
Here are just a few of the possible consequences the form can prevent:
| RELEASOR | RELEASEE |
|---|---|
| Lost Time - time spent fighting legal battles | Lost Time - time spent fighting legal battles |
| Lost Money - legal fees to defend lawsuits - not paid consideration or royalties for photograph taken | Lost Money - legal fees to defend lawsuits - can’t market photographs to advertisers or publishers |
| Mental Anguish - embarrassment of having unwanted photographs published | Mental Anguish - fear of using photos or videos in advertisements |
Here are some situations where a releasee needs to gain the consent of the releasor:
| RELEASOR | RELEASEE |
|---|---|
| Model | Photographer |
| Concert goer | Concert organizer |
| Gala attendee | Gala host |
| Skydiver | Skydiving company |
| Customer | Store owner |
| Student | School or university |
| Sports fan | Sports team |
| Event participant | Event organizer |
With the consent of the releasor, a business might use a photo or video in various advertising mediums. They may publish the image on a printed brochure, email advertisement, website page, or social media post.
Here’s a list of steps on how to gather the releasor’s consent:
Obtain a photo release form and download it so you have a paper copy. This way, the releasor can review the information and have a physical sheet for reference.
Ensure this form contains sections for information like:
Review the form thoroughly with the releasor and answer any questions they may have. Discuss additional provisions like:
Once the releasor agrees to the terms on the photography release form, you can request their signature and sign the form yourself as the releasee. Store this form in your records for future reference. At this point, you can use the photos according to the conditions in the form.
View a sample of our photography release form below. Download it as a PDF or Word file to acquire permission from your photos’ subjects:
