A photo release form, sometimes referred to as a model release form depending on its use, is a form that someone signs that states the filmmaker or photographer takes ownership of the images and has the right to publish their likeness. It is easy to write up your own contract and you do not need an attorney or notary to make it official. The contract should read that the person gives you permission to video tape them on a set date. Some people like to also label that it is only for a specific event or use, but the best way to approach this is instead to say for whatever purpose. This way if your project changes in any way you will not be subject to civil liability. For this purpose it is best to state that “the image can be saved, used, replicated, altered, or published at the producer’s discretion.” The contract should state that the subject “hereby releases and discharges” you and any organization you may be working with from any liability or legal claims that arise from the publication of their image. If you are working with outside institutions you must make sure to list all of them so there is no gap in legal protection. Make sure to have the subject sign and date it, as well as yourself. It is always advisable to have one or two witnesses to also sign and date, which is just a safeguard if legal accusations begin to come up. Remember that this contract is only valid for people over the age of eighteen, and if they are younger you will need a parent’s consent as well. The same issues can also apply to the images of a recognizable house or architectural feature of a private homeowner. Once again, you will need a release from the owner.
