Category: Legal, Photography

Definition: A legal document signed by anyone appearing in commercial photography (models, actors, recognizable individuals) granting permission to use their image and likeness. Similar to model release but can include non-professional talent.

Why It Matters: Legal requirement for commercial use of person's likeness; protects against lawsuits; defines compensation and usage scope; required by publishers and platforms; enables content monetization.

Use Cases: All commercial photography with people, street photography for commercial use, crowd scenes in ads, customer testimonial photos, behind-the-scenes content, user-generated content licensing.

Example of Real Use Case: A fashion brand photographs street style during fashion week intending to use images commercially. They obtain talent releases from all recognizable individuals, avoiding legal issues that competitors faced when using similar content without releases.

Software/Service: Easy Release, Digital release apps, Adobe Sign, legal document templates, model management platforms

Common Issues: Difficulty obtaining releases in spontaneous situations, minors requiring parental consent, language barriers, incomplete releases, lost documentation, people refusing to sign.

Do's and Don'ts:

• ✓ Do obtain releases from everyone recognizable

• ✓ Do get parent/guardian signature for minors

• ✓ Do keep organized digital and physical copies

• ✓ Do clearly explain terms before signing

• ✗ Don't use images commercially without releases

• ✗ Don't assume implied consent

• ✗ Don't use vague or unclear language

Related Terms: Model Release, Usage Rights, Commercial License, Legal Documentation

Also Known As: Appearance Release, Image Release, Likeness Release