Model Release Form Template for Photography
If you’re a photographer or videographer, you’ve likely heard of a model release form. It is an essential document for any business or individual in the photo and video industry. Such a form is a legal agreement between the photographer and the model, outlining the terms and conditions of the photoshoot, and how the images will be used. The model consent form is important because it protects the photographer’s rights and ensures that the model is aware of the intended use of their images, including projects that involve minors.
AidaForm offers a model release form template that is customizable, but ready (and easy!) to use. You can easily adjust the form to fit your needs, and create a nice design that reflects your brand. It goes beyond a simple form and lets you collect, manage and store the data and download signed consent forms to PDF files to print.
To use the AidaForm sample model release form, simply click the Use This Template button and make an adjustable copy of the form. Then, without any HTML skills, you can customize the form by adding your own logo and editing the text to fit your specific needs. Once the form is ready, share it with your models and collect their consent in just a few clicks!
FAQ to Model Release Forms for Photographers
What is a model release form?
At its most basic, a model release is a contract — a standard legal document that outlines the terms and conditions under which a model’s likeness can be used. Essentially, it’s a contract between the model and the photographer or videographer. While model release forms can vary from one shoot to the next, they generally include the model’s and the photographer’s name, contact information, the compensation (unless it’s free), a brief description of the photoshoot, the intended use of the photo or video and the signature line.
It’s important to note that a standard model release form is not just for professional models. Anyone who appears in your photo or video should sign a model release form, regardless of whether they are a professional model, just a friend, a family member or even a stranger who got into the frame. Also, whether you are a pro or amateur — a basic model release form for photographers is still obligatory.
What exactly should be in a model release form?
While the specific contents of a model release form can vary, there are a few key elements that should be included in any model release form for photography or videography. These include:
- The name and contact information for the photographer or videographer and the model and also, in case the model is a minor, the parent or legal guardian of the model.
- The date of the photoshoot or video shoot.
- The specific ways in which the model’s likeness will be used (e.g., in a print ad or on a website).
- The compensation the model will receive (if any).
- A statement releasing the photographer or videographer from any liability related to the use of the model’s likeness.
It’s important to ensure that your model release form is clear and easy to understand. Avoid using legal jargon or overly complicated language and be sure to explain any terms or concepts that might not be familiar to the model.
Are digital model release forms legally binding?
The answer depends on your jurisdiction. If you are not sure about it, it would be safest to consult with a competent lawyer about the requirements for a digital form of consent for the commercial use of images and clarify whether the forms signed in digital format have legal force.
Yet, many photographers and videographers prefer to use online model release forms or electronic model release forms because they are more convenient and efficient than paper forms. One advantage of using digital model release forms is that they can be signed, submitted and stored online, making the process faster and easier for everyone involved.
Is this sample model release form free?
Most of the features of this template are available in the Free plan. AidaForm provides a fully functional simple model release form template for photography that can be customized in your Free account to fit your specific needs.You are limited to 100 responses to your form every month.
To accept electronic signatures, you’ll need the paid Expert or Ultimate plan. By the way, the extended plan will open up many other AidaForm features for you to edit and customize forms and collect more form responses. Unlock your two-week-trial period to learn about all of AidaForm Expert features! To do so, contact our Support Team .
Disclaimer
The forms and contract templates provided on this website are intended as a reference and are not a substitute for legal advice. It is important to seek the advice of a licensed attorney to ensure that any legal documents you use contain the appropriate language and comply with all applicable laws in your jurisdiction.