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Model and Property Releases

If your photo contains recognizable images of people or property, you will need to have a model or property release forms in order to sell your photo for commercial use (editorial use does not require releases).

To learn more about releases and how to submit them, use links below:

Overview

Model and property releases are the written agreements signed by models and property owners that permit photographers to commercially exploit photos of people and their property. Properly completed release forms have to be signed, and include the model/property owner name, date, address, and preferably e-mail.

For more in-depth information about releases, please visit the Stanford University website: the section about releases describes all aspects and issues related to this subject.

Model Releases

Model releases are required for any recognizable and uniquely identifiable people on your photos that you are selling for commercial use. These photos also include self-portraits, photos of relatives, spouses, children, friends, celebrities, politicians, shots on the street, photos made in another country, etc. If your photo contains images of minors, release should be completed and signed by a parent or legal guardian on behalf of the minor.

Property Releases

Property releases are required for any recognizable and uniquely identifiable property (including your own) on your photos that you are selling for commercial use. Usually a property is a building, but it can also be an automobile, boat, or any unique item in a private owner's possession. Some parks, national reserves, and landmarks can also require permits to take photos or use photos taken there on the commercial basis. Please refer to our submission guidelines for further examples of properties and landmarks that may require written permission for commercial use licensing.

Getting Official ShutterPoint Release Forms

Download ShutterPoint blank release forms below. You will need to use Adobe Reader to open files.

Model Release - Adult
Model Release - Minor
Property Release
Release Fax Cover Sheet (for submissions by fax only)

Submitting Releases

If you have submitted a photo that requires a model or property release, scan the release form(s) and send them as e-mail attachments to

Each form must be attached as one of the following file formats: PDF, JPEG, GIF, PNG, TIFF, BMP - no other formats are accepted.

Alternatively, you can fax the form(s) to our toll-free fax number (866) 896-0254.

Please include your username, image ID (found in the Photo Information section underneath your photo) and title of the photo along with the form(s). For submissions by fax, you can use the cover sheet available from the section above.

If you submit new photos of the same model/property you have previously sent us a release for, you do not need to resend the form again. Simply e-mail us the image IDs of the new photos that can use the same release, and the image ID of any existing photo that can share its release form.

Checklist

Before sending us a release form, please review this submission checklist:

  • Does the form contain the names of the photographer, model(s) or description of property?
  • Is the form signed by the model(s)/parent(s)/legal guardian(s) or property owner/authorized representative?
  • Do you provide us with your ShutterPoint username, the image ID and title of all photos the form applies to?
We try to process most release forms as soon as possible, however please allow us up to 2 business days for processing. As soon as your release forms are processed, your images will be set for commercial use.


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