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Photography model release

Updated October 17, 2026

A one-page model release for adults, with a short option for a minor signed by a parent or guardian.

A starting point, not legal advice. Have a local lawyer look it over before you rely on it.

Download the Word fileDownload

Photography model release

Photographer name
Model name
Model address
Model email
Session date

1. Permission

The Model allows the Photographer to photograph and record the Model at the session, and to use, edit and publish the resulting photos and video (the "Images"), including the Model's likeness, anywhere in the world.

2. Allowed uses

The Photographer may use the Images in a portfolio, on a website and blog, on social media, in print marketing, in ads for the Photographer's business, in contests and publications, and for teaching.

Optional. To allow stock licensing, add "and sale or license through stock photo agencies" to this section. Delete this note either way.

3. Not allowed

The Photographer will not use the Images in a way that is defamatory or embarrassing to the Model, for adult or other sensitive subjects, or to suggest the Model endorses a product, cause or organization, unless the Model agrees in writing.

4. Payment and ownership

In return, the Model receives: (money, images, prints or "none"). The Model will not be paid again for later uses and does not approve the final edits or how the Images are used within this release. The Photographer owns the copyright in the Images.

5. Privacy

The Photographer will not publish the Model's address, phone number or email.

6. How long it lasts

This release lasts years from the date signed, unless withdrawn. The Model may withdraw permission for future uses at any time by writing to the Photographer. The Photographer will then stop new uses and remove the Images from places the Photographer controls. Uses that already happened, such as printed items, do not have to be recalled.

7. Under 18

If the Model is under 18, the parent or legal guardian signing below confirms they have the authority to sign for the Model and agree to this release.

Model

Signature
Printed name
Date

Photographer

Signature
Printed name
Date

Parent or guardian (if the Model is under 18)

Signature
Printed name
Date

How to use it

  • Fill in the blank lines, and delete the notes and the parent or guardian line if they do not apply.
  • Send it before the shoot so the model has time to read it and ask questions.
  • If the model is under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign too.
  • Keep the signed copy with the images and give the model a copy.

Questions

Do I need a model release for every client?

Not always. A client contract that grants portfolio and marketing use often covers paying clients. A separate release makes sense for models, trades and styled shoots.

Can a minor sign their own release?

No. For anyone under 18, a parent or legal guardian signs. Get that signature before the shoot.

What if the model changes their mind later?

This release lets them withdraw consent for future uses in writing. You stop new uses and take the images down where you control them, but you do not have to recall printed or published work.

Do I have to pay the model?

No. Payment can be money, images, prints or nothing at all, as long as it is written down and the model agrees.

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