Let’s talk about model release and what it actually represents for you and me. Most of the photographers require a signed contract after you book a session, which includes a model release. Me included.
For photographers, posting images from our sessions is our way of advertising, and how we gain our clients. This is probably how you got here too!
So in order for me to post your images on social media or on my website, I will need a signed model release.
And, for every client who signs one, I am forever grateful!
However, I do understand that not all of the clients want to have their images out there especially of the young ones, and THAT’S OKAY WITH ME TOO! I know the feeling as I am a mama too who tries to protect her young ones! When you get a contract from me, you will have an option to sign one or not.
I respect your wish.
I care more about you being my client and creating something special for you, than posting an image from a session online. Although, I won’t lie, if it’s a session like the one I had with this client, than my heart is crying because every image from that gallery is amazing! By the way, they were so kind and allowed me to post these images, so again, I am grateful!
There are some photographers who charge extra fee to sell their copyrights. Meaning, the client pays an extra fee on top of the session fee to buy all of the images. The client can do with these images whatever they want, edit however they want, enter competitions, etc. The images are no longer an intellectual property of a photographer.
I gave it a lot of thought, going back and forth. Do I turn a client away just because they won’t sign a model release or do I charge them extra?
Because I am so laid back and easy going, I decided to stick to my true self, because again, I CARE MORE about photographing your family and creating these timeless memories for you. So if you don’t want to sign one, it’s OK!
