Model release form template and how to use it
A model release form is a signed agreement in which a person gives permission to use photos or video of them for stated purposes. It names the parties, the shoot, where and how long the images may be used, and the payment. Below is a plain-English template, and ShootModel creates one for every booking.
Permission to use a person's likeness
When someone is clearly recognizable in a photo or video, they have rights over how their face, body and voice are used. A release turns a handshake into a written yes. It says who may use the images, for what, where, and for how long.
A good release answers five plain questions.
| Question | Where the answer goes |
|---|---|
| Who appears and who may use the images | Parties |
| Which shoot it covers | Shoot date and description |
| How the images may be used | Media and purpose |
| Where and for how long | Territory and term |
| What the person got in return | Consideration |
A release is not the same as a usage license
The release is the talent's permission to use their likeness. The usage license sets the commercial terms of that use, such as media, territory, term and exclusivity. On ShootModel both are created for each booking, along with a booking agreement, and they point to each other so the terms match.
Commercial use almost always needs a release
If the images will sell, promote or advertise something, get a signed release. That includes product pages, ads, packaging, social posts from a brand account, billboards and email campaigns.
- 01Brand and e-commerce photos with a recognizable person
- 02Paid ads on social, search, TV or streaming
- 03Packaging, print, signage and out of home
- 04Video for websites, apps and product launches
- 05Stock images you plan to license to others
Cases that are less clear
News and editorial uses may not need a release in some places, and rules differ by country and state. Hands, feet or a person seen only from behind can still be identifiable through tattoos, jewelry or context. When in doubt, get the release signed. It costs nothing to ask and protects both sides.
Created, signed and stored for every booking
You do not need to draft a release for shoots booked on ShootModel. When a booking is made, the platform creates three documents: the booking agreement, the model release and the usage license. The media, territory, term, exclusivity and buyout you chose in checkout are filled in for you.
1. You choose the usage in checkout.
2. The documents are created with the talent, the shoot date and your choices.
3. Both sides e-sign before the shoot.
4. The signed PDFs are stored with the booking and can be downloaded at any time.
For couples, each person signs their own release. Plans for teams also keep a release and usage library, so anyone on the account can find the right file later.
Using your own release
If your client asks for their own release form, you can share it in the booking chat and have the talent sign it as well. The ShootModel release stays on file with the booking.
Model release template you can copy
The text below is a general template for a one-off commercial shoot. Replace every item in brackets before use.
Model release
I, [Talent name], agree to the following with [Producer or brand] for the photo or video shoot on [Shoot date] at [Shoot location].
1. Grant of rights
I give [Producer or brand], and those acting with its permission, the right to take, edit, copy, publish and display photos, video and audio of me made at this shoot (the "Images") in [Media], in [Territory], for [Term] from the first publication date. This grant is [exclusive or non-exclusive] for the [Product category] category during the term.
2. Consideration
In return for this grant I receive [Amount and currency], paid through [Payment method]. I agree that this payment is full and fair for the rights given here.
3. No further payment
I will not ask for any other payment for the use of the Images within the media, territory and term above. Any use beyond them needs a new written agreement and a new fee.
4. Editing and approvals
The Images may be cropped, retouched and combined with other material, but not in a way that is false, embarrassing or harmful to my reputation. [I have or I do not have] the right to approve final images before publication. If I have approval, I will respond within [Number of days] days, after which the images are treated as approved.
5. No endorsement implied
Use of the Images does not mean I personally use, endorse or recommend any product unless a separate written agreement says so. No personal quote or testimonial will be attributed to me without my written consent.
6. Privacy
My full legal name, home address, phone number and date of birth will not be published with the Images. My contact details are used only to manage this shoot and this release.
7. Adult confirmation
I confirm I am 18 or older and that I am free to sign this release.
8. Signatures
Talent name and signature: [Talent name], [Signature], [Date]
Producer or brand name and signature: [Producer or brand], [Name of signer], [Signature], [Date]
General information, not legal advice
This template is general information to help you get started. It is not legal advice. Laws differ by country and state, so for large campaigns or unusual uses, have a lawyer review the final text.
FAQ
01Is a model release form legally required?
For commercial use of a recognizable person, it is the safest and most common practice, and many publishers, ad platforms and stock sites ask for one. Rules differ by place.
02Does a model release need to be notarized?
Usually not. A clear written agreement signed by both parties, including an electronic signature, is the common standard.
03Can a model release be signed online?
Yes. On ShootModel both sides e-sign the release, and the signed PDF is stored with the booking.
04Does the release say how long I can use the photos?
A good release states the term. On ShootModel the term comes from the usage you pick in checkout.
05Do I need a release for hand or parts models?
It is wise to get one. A hand, a tattoo or a piece of jewelry can make a person identifiable.
06What if I want to use the photos for more than I agreed?
You need a new agreement and fee for the extra use. On ShootModel you can ask the talent about an extension inside the booking chat.
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