Photo release: Overview, definition, and example
What is a photo release?
A photo release is a legal document in which an individual or organization grants permission for their image or likeness to be used in photographs or videos for specific purposes, such as marketing, advertising, or media use. By signing a photo release, the person agrees that the photographer or organization can use the photos without further consent or compensation. This document helps protect the photographer or organization from legal claims related to the unauthorized use of a person’s image.
For example, a business might ask for a photo release when taking pictures of clients, employees, or customers for promotional materials, such as websites or social media posts.
Why is a photo release important?
A photo release is important because it legally authorizes the use of someone’s image and protects the party using the photos from potential legal issues. Without a photo release, a person can claim their image was used without permission, which could lead to lawsuits or claims for compensation. For businesses, having a signed photo release ensures that they can freely use images for advertising or promotional purposes without the risk of facing legal action.
Photo releases are commonly used by photographers, marketers, media companies, and any business or individual who needs to use photographs or videos of people for commercial purposes.
Understanding photo release through an example
Imagine a local coffee shop wants to use photos of its customers enjoying their coffee in an advertisement. Before the coffee shop posts the photos on social media or uses them in printed materials, it has each customer sign a photo release form. This allows the coffee shop to use the photos legally, ensuring no issues arise from the customers later claiming their images were used without permission.
In another example, a company hosting a corporate event takes photos of attendees. To avoid legal complications, the company has each attendee sign a photo release form, granting the company permission to use the event photos for marketing purposes such as on their website or in email campaigns.
An example of a photo release clause
Here’s how a photo release clause might look in a contract:
“The undersigned grants [Company Name] permission to use their photograph or likeness in any marketing, promotional, or advertising materials, including but not limited to websites, social media platforms, and printed materials, without compensation or further consent.”
Conclusion
A photo release ensures that individuals or organizations have the legal right to use photographs or videos of people for specific purposes, like advertising or promotions. By obtaining signed photo releases, businesses protect themselves from potential legal issues and avoid claims of unauthorized use. Including clear photo release clauses in contracts helps ensure that all parties understand how their images will be used and prevents misunderstandings down the road.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.