Model Release Form

What is a Model Release Form?

A Model Release Form, also sometimes called a Model Release Agreement, is a document that is used when the image of a person, known as the "model", has been or will be used in photographs, video, or other art and the artist would like to acquire the full legal rights to that image to be used in any way they would like in the future. The "model", for the purposes of a Model Release Form, does not have to be a traditional "model", such as a commercial model. The "model" can be anyone whose images were used in the art.

In a Model Release Form, the model "releases" the rights to the specific images that were used. This means the model acknowledges and agrees that the artist can do anything they would like with the photos, including publish, republish, distribute, edit, change, etc., unless the model would specifically like to include certain restrictions. If so, there is a space for the model to describe what those restrictions would be.

The model also releases any claims that he or she may have on future issues that may arise, like a right of privacy claim or right of publicity.

What is the difference between a Model Release Form, a Deed of Release (General One Way), and a Deed of Release?

A Deed of Release (General One Way) is for use when one party is releasing another party from certain obligations or liabilities. It may be used to settle a dispute between the parties, for example if one party is alleging that the other party is liable to it for some reason.

Our Deed of Release (Mutual) can also be used to settle a dispute between the parties, but is more suitable when multiple parties are simultaneously releasing each other from various obligations and liabilities.

On the other hand, this Model Release Form is specifically designed for use when a model is taking part in a photography or videography session and needs to provide their consent for the use of their images.

Is it mandatory to use a Model Release Form?

No, it is not mandatory, especially for non-commercial purposes.

However, if images are being used for commercial purposes then it is recommended to use a Model Release Form to ensure that the model has provided clear consent to the use of their image.

Who is involved in a Model Release Form?

This Model Release Form will involve the publisher, and the model. The publisher could be an individual person or a company or other legal structure.

If the model is under 18 years of age then a parent or guardian will also be required to review the document and sign it on their behalf.

Who cannot enter into a Model Release Form?

If the model is under 18 years of age then they cannot enter into a Model Release Form unless they have a parent or guardian sign it on their behalf.

What is the duration of a Model Release Form?

A Model Release Form is not generally for a specific time period. Once the model (or their parent/guardian) provides their consent and releases their rights to the relevant images, those rights are permanently released.

What has to be done once a Model Release Form is ready?

After this document is filled out, it may be printed and signed by the model or the guardian. Then, each party (including the publisher) may retain a copy.

This document should be finalised and signed before any of the model's images are used.

Which laws are applicable to a Model Release Form?

Model Release Forms in the Australia may be affected by intellectual property laws, copyright laws, privacy laws, and general principles of contract law.

How to modify the template?

You fill out a form. The document is created before your eyes as you respond to the questions.

At the end, you receive it in Word and PDF formats. You can modify it and reuse it.