Model release: usage rights done right

A model release is the model's written consent that the resulting images may be used. Without it, a photo generally must not be published commercially in Switzerland and the EU (right to one's own image).

These points belong in it: 1. Who photographs whom, when and where. 2. What the images may be used for (social media only, website, all media). 3. How long the consent lasts (e.g. 1 year, unlimited). 4. Whether there is payment or it is TFP (both sides receive images). 5. Whether the model may use the images too, and how to credit the photographer.

Sample wording: I, [model's name], consent that [photographer's name] may use the images taken on [date] in [location] for [usage purpose] for a period of [duration]. Agreed consideration: [TFP / amount]. I cannot revoke this consent retroactively for uses already published. Place, date, signatures of both parties.

For minors, legal guardians must sign. Castashoot only admits people aged 18 and over anyway.

Important: this is guidance, not legal advice. For larger commercial productions, a lawyer-reviewed contract is worth it.