Photo release form template
A photo release gives a photographer, business or organization permission to use pictures or video of a person, and says where, how and for how long they may be used. Fill in the details below and it is laid out as a PDF with signature blocks for the person photographed and the photographer.
This template is a general starting point, not legal advice. Laws differ between countries and states, so have it checked before signing anything important.
Fill in the details
Anything you leave empty becomes a blank line in the document, to fill in by hand or during signing.
Opens the signature request with this document and a signature box for each party already placed.
Preview
Photo and Video Release
This Photo and Video Release (the "Release") is made on __________ between __________ ("Subject"), who can be contacted at __________, and __________, of __________ ("Photographer").
1. The Session
Photographer will take photographs and video and audio recordings of Subject during __________ (together, the "Images").
2. Permission
Subject gives Photographer, and anyone Photographer licenses the Images to for the uses below, permission to use Subject’s name, likeness, image and voice as captured in the Images for the following purposes: __________ (the "Permitted Uses").
The Images may be edited, cropped and combined with other material, as long as the result does not misrepresent Subject.
3. Limits on Use
The Images will not be used: (a) in a way that is defamatory or sexual, or that suggests Subject personally endorses a product, cause or political position beyond the Permitted Uses; (b) in connection with sensitive subjects such as health conditions, addiction or crime, unless Subject agrees in writing; or (c) to create a digital replica of Subject’s face, body or voice, or to train artificial intelligence systems to reproduce them, unless Subject agrees in a separate writing.
4. Duration
The permission lasts for __________. Material already published or distributed during that time, such as printed brochures, does not have to be recalled when the permission ends, but Photographer will not start any new use after that date.
5. Compensation
In return for this Release, Subject receives __________. Subject is not entitled to any further payment, royalties or approval rights for the Permitted Uses.
6. Ownership
Photographer owns the copyright in the Images. Subject may use any copies Photographer provides for Subject’s personal, non-commercial purposes.
7. Subject’s Confirmation
Subject confirms that Subject is at least eighteen (18) years old, has the right to sign this Release, and has no agreement with anyone else, such as an exclusive modeling contract, that prevents it.
8. General
This Release is governed by __________. It is the entire agreement about the Images and may only be changed in writing signed by both parties. If any part of it cannot be enforced, the rest stays in effect. It may be signed in counterparts and with electronic signatures, each of which is treated as an original.
Person photographed
__________
Photographer
__________
When you need a release
You generally need a signed release to use a recognizable person’s image in advertising or to promote a product or service. Editorial uses, such as news reporting, often do not need one, and the rules on using someone’s likeness differ between states and countries. Clients and stock agencies usually ask for a release for portfolio and commercial work too.
- Name the uses: your portfolio, social media, a named brand’s advertising. A clear, specific release is easier to rely on than a vague "any purpose" one.
- Set a time limit that matches the project or campaign.
- For anyone under 18, have a parent or legal guardian sign a release written for minors. This template is for adults.
- Keep the signed release with the image files so you can show it to a client or agency later.
Frequently asked questions
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