Stock Photography FAQ

What are Model and Property Releases?

A model release is a legally binding contract between a photographer and the person he or she has photographed.  The contract usually gives the photographer permission to publish the images that contain the model's likeness "for any purpose" including advertising. 

A property release is similar, although the contract is between the photographer and the owner of property he or she has photographed.  Some popular properties and objects may also cause problems if shown photographically without a release.