Stock Photography?

Question

I am getting started in Stock Photography mostly as a hobby right now. I am signed up on one site called shutterpoint, and they require a model release for every photo of a person. I an understand needing that for a celebrity but not for taking pictures of people on the street or people who aren't recognizable - Are the other sites this restrictive? Do I really need a model release every time I take a picture of someone for stock? thanks

thank you for all your answers

Answer 1

You absolutely need model release forms for EVERYONE.

Heck, I get release forms for my fiancee and his family.
Why? Worst case scenario, we aren't together one day.
If I didn't get release forms, and he and his family now object to being in my photos, I cannot use them.
If I got release forms, tough cookies.

Legally, if someone does not sign a form, they can change their mind at any point.
And you don't want to lose a piece, or gain a lawsuit.

You have a lot to lose.
Definitely make sure you get release forms.
Make it a habit.

Check out Bryan Peterson's book "Beyond Portraiture"
He's a stock photographer, and his book is a MUST if you're starting out Stock Photography.
He wrote a chapter about model release forms, and its very informative.

Answer 2

making photos to sell, is covered by strict laws to protect, the photographer, the person using the photo and the person or persons photographed. Model release forms just cover you from people seeking money, it a photo sells big, a model may sue to get more money, Or if the model is young the form will prove you had permission, to take the photograph.
Celebrity photos in public places are covered by other laws,.

Requiring a release for is to prove who owns copyright, partly.
it is also saying that you took or own the photo. so if someone else can prove that a photo someone posted is theirs then, it is the person who posted the photo who is libel to be sued not the website. anyone feel free to correct me on the law

Answer 3

Yes. In fact, if a site lets you use a photo of a person without a release, they are likely not particularly reputable. People, even regular folks, have the right to protect the use of their likeness. That's essentially what a model release will do.

Answer 4

Yes you need a model release ! Otherwise they can sue you !