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Photola - Guidelines to model/property release

What is a model/property release?

A model or property release is a written agreement between a model (person or persons) or a property owner, and the photographer. The model or property owner is asked to sign a release in order that the photographer may use the photograph commercially.

How do I know if I need a release?

For your reference we have a table below of instances which will require a model or property release to be signed, and if requested, supplied to the purchaser(s) of the image.
As a rule it is necessary that contributors clear all uses of images with models/properties prior to uploading to Photola.co.uk. Any restrictions on the release must be clearly indicated in the description included with the submission process. For instance if a model/property cannot be used for a adult-related advertisement, then contributors must state this in the description accompanying the image.

Reference guide - when a release is needed

The following is a rough guide to when a model or property release is required. Other instances may exist and it is up to the photographer to ensure all requirements are met and a release is signed by the correct person(s), before uploading to Photola.co.uk.

SubjectDescriptionRelease required?
IdentifiablePersons who are identifiable in any wayYes
Sports/team logosPlayers faces, names, numbers or logos identifiableYes
Crowd ScenePersons who are identifiable in any wayYes
Public servicesPersons who are identifiable in any way, uniformsYes
Celebrities/Public figuresRecognisable figures photographed in an arranged or public situation intended for any advertising useYes
Galleries, museums, theme parks, and places open to publicThis depends on the policies of the property concerned. Some venues open to the public have photographic policies in place which could mean that by taking images on that property you are bound by a contract.Yes
Identifiable private propertyHomes, office buildings, private schools, universities and the surrounding property, cars, boats, private and corporate jets and planes.Yes
Galleries, museums, theme parks, and places open to publicThis depends on the policies of the property concerned. Some venues open to the public have photographic policies in place which could mean that by taking images on that property you are bound by a contract.Yes
Logos/trademarksNo logos, trademarks or any other copyrighted material should be uploaded to Photola.co.uk as it is a breach of copyright.Yes

Reference guide - when a release is NOT required

Here are some examples of situations where a release is not required.

SubjectDescriptionRelease required?
Public property Government buildings, public schools, parks No
Unidentifiable private propertyLocations with no identifiable featuresNo
Private property from public accessible location. For example, a street or motorway.Building(s) in an image whose central focus is not these buildings. For example landscapes and skylines.No
Historic/famous locations, landmarksThis varies from country to country and the actual site. You will need to find out the laws regarding a specific siteNo/Yes

Summary

The simple way to look at all this is "if in doubt leave it out". Don't take risks when it comes to photography; play by the law and ensure you have the rights to use a photograph for commercial use. Photola.co.uk will not be held responsible for user submissions. Please read also the terms of use policy, which must be agreed to before making a submission.

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