Model Release

A "model release" is nothing more than a model contract. In legal terms, it is the written consent of a photographed person to the publication of the images taken. Basically, it is about defining the assignment of rights and the project-specific management of publication rights.

Important: A model release is not the same as a photography permit. This specifies that the creation of photographs of people in a certain environment is permitted at all. This permission must be obtained in advance, especially for shoots on private property. Although German law does not officially recognize the term, it is still frequently used in the modeling industry.

During a photo shoot, two very important rights in the creative industry collide. On the one hand, the photographer's copyright to the image he has taken (Art Copyright Act). On the other hand, the model's right of personality (right to one's own image). A model release sets out the conditions and cornerstones of the collaboration and resolves this tension.

The model release specifies how a particular image may be used in the future.

The right of use covers the following points:

• Duration: For how long are the rights granted? How long is the photographer entitled to use the photo they have taken in the manner previously agreed?
• Attribution: Can or must the person depicted in the photo be named in the publication?
• Compensation: How is the person photographed compensated for the assignment of their rights to their own image (compensation clause)?

The model contract also specifies the media areas in which the resulting images may be used.

There are usually three types of use:

• Reporting: The photo may be used in articles of a news nature. For example, as an example photo in newspaper articles (stock photos).
• Advertising: Regulates the use in the commercial sector (for example as a testimonial for a product to be advertised).
• Self-promotion by the photographer: The photographer may use the images on their website and add them to their advertising portfolio.

A model release is the basis of an appreciative collaboration. At Jobwork, we provide you with all the important information on this topic.

If you are about to sign a model release, make sure that the following points are included:

• The use of your images (both in modified and unmodified form) for non-commercial and private purposes. For example, for the creation of sedcards or model portfolios, for job applications or on the Internet (social networks, own website).
• Permission to take a person you trust with you to the photo shoot.
• A say in postures and shooting locations.
• A definition of how the photographer may change or edit the images in the future.

A serious model release never contains consent to the use of a photo without restrictions in terms of location, time and content. If the word "irrevocable" appears in a section, insist that this passage is deleted.

Are there samples for a model release?

The Internet is full of ready-made model contracts. However, reputable agencies discuss the content of the model release with their models before the shoot anyway. However, the sample documents available are a good way to get an overview of the topic in advance.

Can a model release be revoked?

In principle, it is possible to revoke a model release, but in practice this hardly ever happens.

Does a model release apply to all types of photos?

A model release should be as specific as possible and state exactly what type of photos and uses consent is given for.

Can a model release be changed retrospectively?

Changes to an already signed model release should be agreed in writing and accepted by all parties involved.

Is a model release valid internationally?

As a rule, a model release is only valid for the country in which it was signed. Additional agreements may be required for international projects.