Creative Template
Free Model Release Form Template
A model release grants permission to use a person's likeness in photos or videos.
Template
Copy this markdown, replace the {{variables}}, and send via API.
# Model Release Form
**Model:** {{modelName}}
**Photographer/Producer:** {{producerName}}
**Date:** {{date}}
**Shoot/Project:** {{projectDescription}}
## Release
I, {{modelName}}, grant {{producerName}} permission to use images and/or video of me for {{usagePurpose}}.
## Compensation
{{compensation}}
## Duration
{{duration}}
## Restrictions
{{restrictions}}Send for e-signature
curl -X POST https://signb.ee/api/send \
-H "Authorization: Bearer YOUR_API_KEY" \
-H "Content-Type: application/json" \
-d '{
"content": "YOUR_RENDERED_MARKDOWN",
"senderName": "Your Name",
"senderEmail": "you@company.com",
"recipientName": "Recipient",
"recipientEmail": "recipient@email.com"
}'What happens next
- Signbee converts the markdown to a professional PDF
- Recipient gets an email with a signing link
- Both parties sign with an animated handwriting signature
- Both receive the signed PDF with a SHA-256 certificate
All signatures are legally binding under the ESIGN Act, eIDAS, and ECA.
More details
A model release form grants the photographer or producer the legal right to use a person's likeness for specified purposes. Without one, using someone's image commercially can result in right-of-publicity claims, privacy violations, and significant legal liability.
When is a model release required? - Commercial use: Advertising, marketing, product packaging, social media ads, and branded content. Always required. - Editorial use: News, documentary, and educational content. Generally not required, but recommended for risk mitigation. - Stock photography: Stock agencies require model releases for any image containing recognisable people before accepting it for commercial licensing. - Fine art: Varies by jurisdiction. Some courts treat fine art as protected expression; others require releases for commercial sale.
What the model release must include: 1. Identification — Full names of both the model and the photographer/producer. If the model is a minor, the parent or legal guardian must sign. 2. Scope of use — Specific purposes: advertising, social media, print, web, billboards, product packaging. Broader scope = higher compensation. 3. Duration — How long the images may be used. Perpetual releases are common but the model may negotiate a limited term. 4. Compensation — Payment for the release (separate from any modelling fee). Even nominal compensation (e.g., £1) strengthens enforceability. 5. Restrictions — What the images cannot be used for. Common exclusions: defamatory context, endorsement of products the model hasn't actually used, sensitive topics (tobacco, alcohol, political campaigns). 6. Territory — Geographic scope. 'Worldwide' is standard for digital content but can be limited.
Minor model releases: If the subject is under 18, the parent or legal guardian must sign. Some jurisdictions require both parents' consent. The minor may also need to sign (or assent) depending on their age. Always verify age and guardianship status.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a model release for social media photos?
Yes, if the photos are used commercially (advertising, sponsored posts, brand promotion). Editorial or personal social media posts typically don't require releases, but commercial use of someone's likeness without permission creates legal liability.
Can minors sign a model release?
No. If the subject is under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign the release. Some jurisdictions require both parents' consent. The minor may also need to provide assent alongside the parental signature.
Can model release forms be signed electronically?
Yes. Model releases are valid with electronic signatures under ESIGN (US), eIDAS (EU), and ECA (UK). E-signing on location (via phone or tablet) is common practice for shoots where paper forms are impractical.
Related resources
Send this template for signing — free, no credit card.