Why do I need a model release?
 

Why do I need a model release?

Because it's the law.

I wouldn't recommend getting a model release if you're shooting underage girls.

Isnt a verbal contract any good?
I dont plan to resell or have any problems with the models.
Will just publish video on my paysite.

Not having proper signed releases = train wreck waiting to happen.

Best of luck with it.

I have some magic beans for sale. :thumbsup

you do???? how much are they????

Yeha thats great because a models word is better then gold! You're going to do great! :thumbsup

You got that right:1orglaugh:error

Models are unstable individuals. You are playing with the devil here and even if you haven't had any bad experience, it is likely to catch up with you soon. the question doesn't really stand - why do i need model release. The question in fact is what is the benefit of a modeling release? And there are number of benefits for a photographer. Even if you don't plan to do any major business with pictures you take, cover your ass with the release before it's too late. Modeling releases are there for your good and your protection. Not having your models sign one is giving all of it up.

Example, model gets older and regrets doing porn, demands you take the content down. No release = dumb.

I'm going to do a deal with someone I've never met.
Why do I need a contract?


:1orglaugh:1orglaugh:1orglaugh

This isn't even a serious question.....its like a mechanic asking if he should buy spanners.

Quick answers - No, irrelevant and unwise :)

Whether the content is adult-orientated or not, a model release is a basic necessity. Don't even waste time having a shoot unless a model can turn up with a valid photo ID and sign a model release.

For 'adult' content, most countries will require the production of documents to prove a model is of whatever legal age within that country, tho unlikely anyone cares or will challenge this if the model is a 40 year old MILF with big tits - apart from the FBI in the US who obviously have a problem comprehending age :)

A model release also normally has agreement for content to be used elsewhere and sets out the terms with the model for his/her imaging to be used, eg commerically etc.

Nobody plans on having 'problems with models' and it may not be the model who becomes the problem. Don't bother trying to find your "verbal contract" in the hope of producing this in court :winkwink:

Sadly these questions seem to arise on GFY ...

None of these answers is correct and it is somewhat pathetic that many in this business do not know the answer. It has nothing to do with 2257 or proof of age.

It is simple.

Everyone OWNS their own likeness.

Your likeness is what you look like, your face, and any identifiable characteristics by which others would recognize you, such as a distinctive tattoo.

When a photographer shoots a model, absent any other agreement, the photographer OWNS the copyrights on what he produces. However, just owning the copyright doesn't mean anything.

The model model must also release the rights of his or her likeness to the photographer for the purpose spelled out in the release. Without that, the photographer (copyright holder) can only look at the content produced and jack off, they can't legally do anything else with it.

What most people don't understand is that in addition to a model release, LEGALLY you also need property releases as well. But that is another story.

Totally correct - and well put :thumbsup

The "proof of age" element is obviously more relevant to the adult industry - but a photo ID is also useful for legal identification of a model to accompany a model release.

Best of luck to ya man... BTW, what sites are yours so I dont promote.

And See Sig

BTW, see sicone's sig, also.

That's monkey wrenches for the non-worldly Americans. :2 cents:

So you dont go to jail. !!!

Incorrect.

Your answer is more thorough and accurate, but that doesn't mean that all the rest of the stuff everyone else said here is incorrect. Fact is much of it is every bit as correct as what you said. Not having proper releases and going ahead with using the content for business IS a train-wreck in progress. Models ARE generally unstable individuals, many of whom are prone to changing their minds later on. A proper release really does set out the terms for use, and it IS something that can be produced in court whereas a verbal agreement can't.

So all the other answers aren't wrong, they're just not the entire answer.


One thing most experienced shooters should be able to agree on is that shooting models and publishing the content without proper releases is a bad idea, yes?

No, it is not simply a bad idea, it is against the law. It has nothing to do with the model being a train wreck, etc, etc, it is against the law. Now if the model never comes after you for it, you don't suffer. But that doesn't change the fact that it is not legal.

You're in an arguing mood. Nowhere did I say it being a bad idea is the whole answer.

But it IS a bad idea, so stop arguing the point. Breaking the law is generally a bad idea.

I already said your answer is the more thorough one.

now that's really funny. models are nothing but problems

Its the law and it covers your ass.

You even need to them for nonadult. Its a must for photography thats not snap shots. In fact if you take a picture of building and plan to sell it ,you need a release.

it must be a joke