Model Releases Explained: When Do You Need One?
If you’ve ever stood in front of someone with your camera and thought, Do I need them to sign something?, you’re not alone.
The rules around model releases can be a bit murky, especially when you’re bouncing between editorial, commercial and personal work.
So let me demystify it for you: when exactly do you need a model release and when can you get by without one?
What Is a Model Release?
A model release is a simple document signed by the person in your photograph (the “model”), giving you permission to use their image in specific ways. The “model” doesn’t necessarily mean a professional or amateur “model”, it’s simply a term used to describe the person you’re photographing.
And it’s not about the taking of the photograph it’s about what you plan to do with it afterwards.
In essence, it protects you, the photographer, from legal claims related to a person’s image being used in a way they didn’t agree to especially for commercial purposes.
When You Don’t Need a Release
Let’s start with the good news: in the UK, if you’re photographing people in public spaces for editorial, personal, or artistic use, you usually don’t need a model release. Street photography, reportage, exhibitions, documentary projects these are typically protected under freedom of expression and artistic practice.
So, if you’re capturing everyday life in a town square, or documenting a protest, you’re likely in the clear as long as your images aren’t used in a misleading or defamatory context.
When You Do Need a Release
Where things get trickier is with commercial use, think advertising, promotional campaigns, or even selling prints that feature recognisable individuals. If your image is going to help sell a product, service, or idea, you’ll need a release. This applies whether it’s for a client campaign or stock photography.
Here are a few examples:
A portrait used in a brand’s social media ad
A photo featuring someone used on a product label or poster
An image of a stranger licensed to a travel company for promotional use
An image of someone to promote an event
In these cases, no matter how beautiful the image, using it without permission could land you in hot water.
What Should a Model Release Include?
A good release doesn’t need to be intimidating. It should cover:
The model’s full name and signature
Your name and contact details
A brief description of the shoot or context
Clear terms of how the image will be used
Date and location
There are plenty of templates online, or you can create your own to suit your style of work. Some photographers carry paper versions, others use release apps like Easy Release or Model Release by Snapwire.
Alternatively, take a look at my Model Release Form template here:
https://www.jameswarmanphotography.com/example-agreements
Working with Vulnerable Subjects
If you’re photographing children or vulnerable adults, you’ll need consent from a parent, guardian or legal representative even for editorial use. Be especially mindful of how these images are used, and always err on the side of caution.
When will you be asked for it?
You might be the one keeping the release on file, but don’t be surprised if others ask to see it.
Clients, especially commercial ones, will often request a copy to protect themselves legally. If you’re submitting work to a gallery for exhibition or entering an art or photography competition, organisers may also want proof that you’ve secured the necessary permissions.
Some stock libraries and publishers won’t even consider your images without a signed release in place. Keeping these documents organised and accessible isn’t just admin it’s part of running a professional practice.
Final Thoughts
Think of a model release as just another piece of your kit like a lens cloth or spare battery.
Most of the time, you won’t need it, but when you do, it can save a lot of grief. It’s not about red tape it’s about trust, transparency, and making sure everyone involved feels comfortable and protected.