Businesses often use photographs in their marketing material such as brochures, websites, and other promotional content.
These photographs will typically contain recognizable images of individuals. It is mostly in such cases that Photo Release Forms are required.
Using a Photograph Release Form can grant you the authorization to obtain, use, and distribute an individual's photograph for profit.
Photo Release Forms are usually not necessary when taking photographs in public spaces. It is widely accepted that anyone on public premises is not looking for any form of privacy. In many cases also, it may not even be practical to get a Photo Release Form. For example, a concert in a public park.
There are 8 main types of Photo Release Forms:
Property Release Form
In this case, there are no individuals depicted in the photograph. Instead, they may contain other private property, such as a house or a car.
Minor Photo Release Form
This type of form is used when someone under 18 years of age appears in a photograph. A parent or legal guardian will need to sign on their behalf.
Photo Print Release Form
This form defines the legal terms under which a photograph can be printed and used.
Photo Copyright Release Form
With this form, the photographer holds the copyright and defines how the other party may use it.
Model Release Form
It outlines the terms of cooperation between a photographer and a model, including remuneration and use of the images.
Daycare Photo Release Form
It provides consent to use photographs taken at a daycare center.
Employee Photo Release Form
This document grants permission to be photographed at work. As it does not expire, it can be revoked at any time by the employee.
Pet Photo Release Form
This form is used to provide authorization to photograph domestic animals, such as dogs and cats.