Get a photo release form signed online

What a photo release covers

A model release, or photo release, gives a photographer or business permission to use images of a recognisable person. The photographer owns the copyright in the photo, but in many countries the person shown has rights over how their likeness is used, especially commercially.

Stock agencies such as Getty and Adobe Stock will not accept commercial images of recognisable people without a signed release. Brands commissioning a shoot want one before publishing an advert.

Terms worth being specific about

A vague release is how photographers end up in disputes with people who never expected to see their face on a billboard.

• Uses: editorial, commercial advertising, social media, packaging, sensitive subjects. A release for 'all purposes' may not cover a sensitive use such as a health campaign.
• Media and territory: print, online, broadcast; worldwide or limited.
• Duration: perpetual or for a set term.
• Fee, or a statement that the release is given for no fee.
• Alterations: whether images may be retouched or combined with others.
• Name use: whether the model's name may appear alongside the image.

Releases, privacy and the GDPR

In the US, rights of publicity are set by state law, and New York and California, among others, restrict commercial use of a person's likeness without written consent. In the UK there is no general image right, but advertising codes, passing off and data protection still apply.

In the UK and EU, a photo of an identifiable person is personal data. If you rely on consent under the GDPR, Article 7(3) lets the person withdraw it at any time, which sits uneasily with a release that says it is irrevocable. Many professionals rely on contract or legitimate interests for paid shoots instead. This is general information, not legal advice; ask a lawyer about your specific use.

Minors and property releases

For anyone under 18, a parent or guardian must sign. Schools and youth groups often ask for photo consent alongside permission slips.

If the photo shows private property, artwork or a recognisable building used commercially, a property release from the owner may be needed too. It is a separate document with the owner as signer.

Mistakes photographers make

Getting the release signed after the shoot, when the model has seen the images and changed their mind. Using a release that does not mention the actual use. Losing track of which release matches which shoot: attach a contact sheet or describe the shoot date and location in the release so the link is clear.

Sending a release with Sign PDF

Upload your release and Sign PDF places the model, guardian and photographer boxes from the wording. Use the assistant to 'add a checkbox for each use' or 'model initials beside the permitted uses'. You can sign as photographer before it goes out.

Send it when the shoot is booked. The model confirms a code from their email and signs on their phone, and you get a sealed PDF with a certificate of completion showing when they signed. Keep it with the shoot files; stock agencies may ask for it years later.