Are model releases needed for this situation?

[snyper77]

I'm ready to build my website and I plan on using some photos from my last 5 weddings. Those 5 weddings were done with no paperwork, contracts, etc. By law, do I have to have written permission/contract allowing me to use my photos on my website (as a slideshow on my homepage)?
Thanks!

[Tommy]

Yes.

[snyper77]

So what do you guys use as a contract that gives you permission for website use? Is this part of the wedding contract? Have a link to a generic form? What do I do at this point while trying to build a site with no permissions to use their photos? :(

[Tommy]

Google is your friend ;)

http://www.e-model.net/info/mr.html

I incorporate my model release right in my contracts whether weddings, seniors, etc... Contact your prior clients and ask them if they sign a model release so you can display their images on your website and for advertisement.

[jra]

As Tommy suggested, contact your previous clients and ask them to sign a release. Maybe sweeten the deal by offering them a few free prints for the trouble. Posting the images without a release could bring future trouble and just isn't a good idea.

[snyper77]

Will do. I figured that the few people that I have shot thus far may feel flattered by me using their pics....but then again, you have some people that get offended when you "show off" their pictures. They feel that's a very private thing.

Thanks guys.

[Tarzanman]

use the photos but blur the faces... or put those awesome black bars over their eyes!

I kid! I kid!

[turbo212003]

Did you get paid for those 5 weddings? Maybe it's just me but a contract is the first thing I think about. It protects you and the customer. Also without examples of your work, how are people supposed to judge you?

[Alleh]

You don't need a release to use them on your website. I don't believe an online or printed collection of your images constitutes commercial advertising. The difference would arise if you used an image in a print promo, in a web advertisement on a business card maybe etc. With weddings I would think it is generally a good idea to remove the photos if someone asks but aside from that no issues.

[Tommy]

You don't need a release to use them on your website. I don't believe an online or printed collection of your images constitutes commercial advertising. The difference would arise if you used an image in a print promo, in a web advertisement on a business card maybe etc. With weddings I would think it is generally a good idea to remove the photos if someone asks but aside from that no issues.

If he's using his website to bring in business, it's advertising... Web site = Web Advertising. So YES, he needs a release.

[aram535]

I think you guys might be wrong, but IMNAL -- as far as I know Website is not advertising. Its a portfolio of your work and unless you're selling the "images" on the website you don't need a release. Although I'm sure it would be better if you did.

[Tommy]

aram535::

An advertisement is a public promotion of some product or service.

I took the liberty of checking out your website... it's public so I was able to get to it. Your website has listed services that you offer and price information... That's an advertisement. ;)

[PhotosGuy]

Model release confusion? (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/...ad.php?t=91081) - Great post by GNC.

Forms, legal docs, contracts (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=330529)

[-g-]

Model release confusion? (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/...ad.php?t=91081) - Great post by GNC.

404 error on that link.

[Jacobredphoto]

I have many people on my photography site, none of which I got a model release for, most were family, some were of musicians. It's just to build my portfolio, not for monetary gain.

[Tommy]

Will you be using your portfolio to lure in business when the time comes to start making money from your craft? If so, a model release will be required when that time comes. ;)

Edit::
I just looked at your site... you're selling work? A model release is required... ;)

I have yet to develop a base rate for individual photographic prints. If you would like to purchase prints please contacts me via the Contact Us tab with the size print that you would prefer and URL link of the photo(s) that you would like and we can go from there. I will most likely offer prints in 8x10 or bigger plus cost of S&H. Finishes will be available in Luster or Glossy print.

[Jacobredphoto]

I'm actually not sure, I think I am going to delete that and link to a macro site, I probably will then get the model releases due to the requirement, most of it is my family so it's not like it would be hard to get.