Importance of a Model Release Form

loloray

This is a question to all photographers regarding model release forms. Do you always use a MRL (Model Release Form) while working with a model? Does anyone think that they are unnecessary, or would be insulted if a model requested one?

P.S. ....and off-topic.... just joined MySpace last week which I'm finding great for networking so far - add me if you're on Myspace. my page.

Fajitas!

Model releases are handy for both sides. If a photographer is insulted by a model requesting one, I'd be pretty curious why!

I don't use a release when I'm shooting friends and whatnot, but would if shooting anyone else.

Paulw

I would generally use a model release form, especially for paid shoots. But, they're not exactly necessary, especially if you don't plan to do anything commercial with the images.

It would really depend on my plans for the images, but it's generally better to have a model release than not.

I certainly wouldn't be insulted if a model requested one, prior to the shoot, but if at a later date she came back about a model release form I wouldn't be impressed.

It is up to both model and photographer to work out the details prior to the shoot - model release forms, payment, etc

Borderfox

Always use one, they are always worth using, I added you as a friend (I am Keith) Welcome to the Boards..

loloray

Borderfox wrote: »

Always use one, they are always worth using, I added you as a friend (I am Keith) Welcome to the Boards..

#
Ah hi Keith. Nice to be friends! :-) You got some nice shots there.

Borderfox

Aww shucks Thanks, the slideshow on your myspace is great

mikeanywhere

Lolo, a model release is a requirement irrespective whether its paid or TF*.

loloray

mikeanywhere wrote: »

Lolo, a model release is a requirement irrespective whether its paid or TF*.

Hi Mike, yep, I know what I think but I was wondering what photographers thought. I agree with all comments so far.

Thanks to all for replying.

RCNPhotos

I'd be curious to know what exactly you guys put into your release forms? I've never used one, since so far i've only really shot friends in the studio etc. But when i do start shooting others, what kind of thing goes into the form?

loloray

RCNPhotos wrote: »

I'd be curious to know what exactly you guys put into your release forms? I've never used one, since so far i've only really shot friends in the studio etc. But when i do start shooting others, what kind of thing goes into the form?

Firstly, if you google, you'll find some standard templates of MRFs.
It really depends on the type of shoot.
I've even done filming before where the public would be in the background - a type of MRF was needed to allow their images to be used.
Different shoots will have different conditions, you could have something in there that stipulates no party can make money, or how the money would be shared if cash was made from the images. An MRF will usually state that the photographer has full copyright of the images (particularly in TFX shoots or when the photographer is paying the model/MUA etc). In TFX, it could also be common to state that the images can only be used on the portfolios of the parties involved.

There will also be a small section where the undersigned (model, in my case) has a chance to add in something extra. I generally ask for to be credited for my images - so that wherever the images are posted my name will be beside them. There could also be an agreement that no images will be publicly used unless all parties agree on the best lot.

Basically I'd recommend getting an MRF template from online (or from someone else using them) and then editing it to suit you. I personally think that if you plan on using the images anywhere, an MRF is essential, as if you don't have an MRF, but use the images down the line - the model could potentially come back and try to stop you from using her image. If you have an MRF that she has signed, then your ass is covered if she changes her mind about anything.

Fajitas!

Not gonna get much of a better description than that

RCNPhotos

Cheers for that.

By the by, TFX? Probably something obvious but I can't think of what it could mean. Time for...something?

See Fajitas, even the best, clearest explanation doesn't get by me

Fajitas!

Time for X, X being a cd, or prints generally!

RCNPhotos

I thought it was that, but couldn't think what X stood for haha. It's just like being back in maths class.

Cheers.