Getting people to sign stuff won't stop them from bringing a civil suit if they choose to. As long as he isn't breaking any federal or state laws I'm not sure what getting permission is for, aside from just being a nice guy.

 

Mike I'm leaving my house, but I think I'd like to use the simpleviewer program for each section of the site.

 

Basically when a client puts their signiture on the release form, they agree to give up all right to the photo. I have the right to sell it or use it in any advertisement. They have no leagal right to bring suite against me for use of their image.

Lets say Matt wanted to be an ass, he could take Joe to court and say that he never gave Joe permission to use his car on his website. Joe would have to pay up(in most cases).The release that I have people sign, prevents that from happening to me.

Im by no means saying this happens all the time, and that it will happen but its just always better to cover your butt ya know? I usually dont make friends sign it but if I photograph some strangers on the street, I make sure to have a signed copy from em

 

Stop giving him ideas. That bitch has TWO pics on there already.

 

And one of those pics is modified without my permission.

 

I saw it all! Ill testify against that samoan!

 

Having a signature prevents nothing, anyone can bring a civil suit against you for any reason/any time. Now the chances of them winning are slim-to-none if you have something signed. But it isn't some magical shield that will prevent lawsuits.

 

I want in.

 

I agree. Like I said it covers your ass. They no longer have any rights over that image.

You really only need releases if you are going to use the iamges in a commerical context. Especially so if you want to sell them to a (non-editorial) stock agency.

EDIT:
This is just about what mine looks like but I have a few more details on the ones I use.


Model Release Form
I, ___________________, do hereby give ________________, his (her) assigns, licenses, and legal representatives the irrevocable right to use my name (or any fictional name), picture, portrait, or photograph in all forms and media and in all manners, including composite or distorted representations, for advertising, trade, or any other lawful purposes, and I waive any right to inspect or approve the finished product, including written copy, that may be created in connection therewith, in considerable of $____, receipt of which is acknowledged. I have read this release and am fully familiar with its contents. I am 18 yeas of age or older.

Signed:
Print Name:
Address:
Date:
Witness:

Consent (if applicable)
I am the parent and guardian of the minor named above and have the legal authority to execute the above release. I approve the foregoing and waive any rights in the premises.

Signed:
Print Name:
Address:
Date:
Witness:

Note: if the subject is a minor, cross out the last sentence of the release and have the consent area signed.

 

I saw the site a few min ago... and good luck with everything. BTW, answer my damn messages