Second shooter images ethics question

viperx27 wrote in post #4457517
most of this has been covered, so I'll just throw out a little more on the subject.

Look at it from the B&Gs perspective, do they want someone they didn't hire to have their images on your site? Did YOU get a model release?

If a customer sees images from the same wedding on each f our site will they be able to figure out who was the hired pro? Some pros require wording that you were hired help for the shoot.

I would not play the model release card since most Pros have a model release from the BG but they don't have one for the dozen of other people in the pictures they take (MOB, FOB, bridesmaids, etc.).
So while the Pro has a release for 2 people he is liable for the other dozen of people if we're going to use the model release as a cover.

Now in weddings people normally don't bring this issue up since it is a joyous event but if were going to bring up the strengths of the model release we have to look at it's weaknesses to. We have to acknowledge that there is great strength in it and you would have to get one done for everyone if you are going to claims it's powers.


If the Pro did not have anything in writing I question his business sense. Especially since there are ton of legal precedents to the work for hire trap (such as the link I previously posted).

As far as looking at it from the BGs perspective if they are worried about pics getting online they need to talk to every guest with a PS and cell camera and tell them not to take pics and put them on MySpace.

Wow seems this thread spun off into something a bit too intense.. the original question is:

C.Steele wrote in post #4452432
My question pertains to the images I have shot with the pro I work with. Is it ok to ask for a few for my portfolio or is that a no no?

--To sum it all up YES it is ok to ask for a few for your portfolio.

and:

C.Steele wrote in post #4452432
When I started with him everything was stated up front so there were no surprises. He knew I would eventually go on my own and this wouldn't be a permanent thing. He expects it, so no worries there. The only thing we didn't talk about was the question I have now. We have a great relationship, and I know he would probably give them to me if I asked, just because I asked. But my question is - is that the RIGHT thing to do?

-- If you have a good relationship with him, then don't be afraid to ask. Ethics are all in the eye of the beholder. Look at it this way. if you two were in the opposite position, what would you want him to do? That is your ethical answer.