Photo Release Template
Contributor
Reviewed By Adam Ramirez, J.D.
Editor
Get written permission to use someone's image, likeness, or voice — customized for your project and valid in all 50 states.
Trusted by photographers, videographers, and marketing teams nationwide
- 8
- Simple Steps
- 50
- States Covered
- 4
- Release Scope Options
Summary
- Photo release forms allow you to use an image for commercial purposes
- Not obtaining a release form could mean facing lawsuits
What is a photo release form? It is a legally binding document in which a party grants permission to a photographer to use their image. Just as you would need to write release and waiver forms for copyrighted materials, you need one for photos.
What a Photo Release Form Is
A photo release form allows you to use the pictures you took of people, property or places. Anyone is permitted to take photos of whatever they please, but you are not allowed to use those photos for promotional or commercial purposes without permission.
What the Form Does
What is a photo release form for? It grants you permission to publish the photo. It involves the person in the photo or the owner of property in the photo stating that you are allowed to use it.
The form clearly outlines how and for what purpose the owner has granted you this permission. These forms protect you from being sued for invasion of privacy or appropriation.
Types of Release Forms
There are a few types of release forms. A model release is one in which an adult subject grants the photographer the use of their image, likeness and name. If a subject is under the age of 18, a minor release form is necessary. A parent or guardian must sign it; otherwise, it is not legal.
There are also property releases that give you permission to use a photo featuring recognizable private property.
When You Need One
You will need to create a photo release form if you intend to sell or use the photo for commercial purposes of any kind. This includes using the image to sell, advertise or promote a product, brand or service.
Typically, you will not need to obtain a photo release form if you are using the image for editorial purposes. This would include using it for news reports or educational purposes. You may also not need to get release forms from people in the background of a photo or from those who are part of crowds.
What to Include in the Form
The photo release form must outline the mediums where the photo will be used, such as social media, websites and so forth. It must also outline whether there is a time limit for the use of the photo. Additionally, the form must state whether the person granting the release was paid or not. It must include the signatures of all parties involved.
Where to Find a Template
If you’re planning to use someone’s likeness for commercial purposes, you will generally need to obtain a photo release. At ConsumerShield, we can assist you by providing templates. You can use forms and guides to protect yourself from legal issues. Check out our templates to get started.
Support
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about photo releases
A photo release form is a legal document that grants permission to use someone's name, image, likeness, or voice in photographs, videos, or other media. It protects both the photographer and the subject by clearly defining how and where the media may be used.
If you plan to use the images for commercial purposes advertising, social media marketing, product packaging you need a signed release. Editorial and newsworthy uses may be exempt, but having a release on file is always the safest approach.
When the subject is under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign the release on their behalf. Our form automatically adds guardian name and signature fields when you indicate the subject is a minor.
Exclusive rights mean only you (the photographer or organization) can use the media the subject cannot grant the same rights to anyone else. Non-exclusive rights allow the subject to authorize other parties to use the same images or footage.
Yes. A photo release can be granted with or without monetary compensation. Many releases are signed simply in exchange for copies of the photos or for participation in an event. Our form lets you specify either option clearly.
ConsumerShield Premium
Unlimited access for ongoing document and guide work.
Prefer monthly? $9.99/mo — choose at checkout.
- Unlimited legal-form generation while active
- Unlimited guide unlocks across every available state
- Completed PDFs stay in your library
- Best for frequent document and guide work
Everything included
- Unlimited legal-form generation while active
- Unlimited guide unlocks across every available state
- Completed PDFs stay in your library
- Best for frequent document and guide work
Subscribe
$199.99/yrSave $39.89 vs monthly ·
Subscribe & save
Photo Release Form