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Saturday, 3 October 2026Fashion, style and modelingLTEN
Money and rights

Model release

Also called: release form

A model release is a document signed by the model that allows the photographer or client to use pictures of them in the stated way.

How it works

A person's image cannot be used commercially without consent. That is why advertising and stock photographers ask the model to sign a release stating which pictures, for what and on which terms they will be used.

When a model works through an agency, the terms are usually already in the booking confirmation, and the release is signed by the agency for the model or by the model on the same terms. A parent signs for a minor.

The main risk is a broad release: "any use, in perpetuity, worldwide". Once signed, the pictures can turn up anywhere, and there will be no way to withdraw them.

In practice

After a shoot a stock photographer hands the model a release form saying "any use, in perpetuity". The model asks to exclude political advertising, tobacco and alcohol, and sensitive health topics. The photographer agrees, both sign the amended form and the model keeps a copy.

What to watch for

  • Do not sign unread, even if you are rushed on set.
  • Strike out clauses you do not accept and ask your agency.
  • For sensitive subjects (health, politics, lingerie) ask for a separate agreement.

Related terms

Money and rightsUsage rightsUsage rights define where, for how long and in which countries a client may use pictures or footage of the model.Money and rightsBuyoutA buyout is a one-off fee with which a client buys in advance the right to use the pictures in set channels, a territory and a period.How a job happensTFPTFP stands for "time for prints": a shoot where nobody pays anybody, and the model, the photographer and the team are rewarded with pictures for their portfolios.Money and rightsDigital replicaA digital replica is a computer-generated or AI-enhanced version of a model that can be used to create new pictures or video without the model.Money and rightsChaperoneA chaperone is an adult, usually a parent, who stays with a minor model at castings, shoots and on trips.
Questions and answers

Frequently asked

01Do you need a release for a TFP shoot?

It is wise: it states that the pictures are for portfolios and social media only.

02Can you withdraw a release?

A signed release is hard to withdraw, so limit its scope from the start.

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