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Free Model Release Form

A model release form gives a photographer permission to use photos of the person who signs it, for a portfolio, website, social media, advertising or stock. Start with the template for adult models, or use the minor, TFP and boudoir versions below.

  • Adult, minor, TFP & boudoir
  • Commercial & editorial use
  • Plain-English terms
  • Send for e-signature online
Free. No signup required. Last updated September 2026.

Photographer? Skip the printer. Send this release, or the minor, TFP or boudoir version, for online e-signature with Lightfolio.

On this page: Full template · Minor release · TFP release · Boudoir release · What to include · FAQ

Model Release Form
[Photographer or Studio Name]
Agreement

Model: Date of Shoot: Location:

Terms
  1. Permission. I give [Photographer or Studio Name] (the “Photographer”) permission to use photos and video of me from the shoot above (the “Images”) in any media, worldwide, for any lawful purpose, including portfolio, website, social media, advertising, editorial and commercial use.
  2. Editing. The Photographer may crop, retouch, combine or otherwise edit the Images, and does not need my approval of the final Images or any text used with them.
  3. Ownership. The Photographer owns the Images, including all copyrights. I may use Images the Photographer gives me in my personal portfolio and social media, but I may not sell or license them.
  4. Compensation. In exchange for this release I will receive:
  5. Release. I release the Photographer from any claims related to the use of the Images, including invasion of privacy, right of publicity and defamation.
  6. Binding. This release is irrevocable and binds my heirs, legal representatives and assigns.

I have read and understand this release, and I am at least 18 years old.

Signatures
Model Signature
Date
Model Printed Name
Email or Phone
Photographer Signature
Date
Sample only, not legal advice. Consult an attorney for your jurisdiction.

Model Release Form Template

The full-length release for adult models (18+). It gives the photographer broad rights to use the images in any media, lets the model use the images in their personal portfolio, and includes a release of liability. This is the version you can send for e-signature in Lightfolio: edit any clause, add your logo, and your model signs on their phone.

Model release form template cover page
  • pg.1

    Model Release

    Jessica Clark Photography

    Agreement

    This Model Release Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into on this  day of , 20__, by and between:

    Participants
    • Model
      Full Name
      Address
      Email Address
      Phone Number
    • Photographer
      Jessica Clark
      100 Bleecker St
      New York, NY 11221
      (800) 555-1212
    Terms

    For good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Model hereby grants to the Photographer, its legal representatives, assigns, licensees, and those acting with its authority and permission (collectively, “Photographer”), the unrestricted, perpetual, worldwide right and permission to copyright, use, reuse, publish, and republish photographic portraits or pictures of the Model (the “Pictures”), including any negatives, transparencies, prints, or digital data pertaining to them.


    This right shall include use in whole or in part, in composite or distorted form, in still, single, multiple, moving or video format, in any media now known or hereafter developed, for purposes including but not limited to advertising, promotion, marketing, publication, commercial, artistic, editorial, or any other lawful purpose.


    The Model hereby waives any and all rights to inspect or approve the final product or materials incorporating such Pictures, including written or spoken copy that may accompany the use of the Pictures. The Model expressly disclaims and waives any ownership or publication rights in connection with the Pictures, with the sole exception of the Model’s right to use the Pictures in a personal modeling portfolio or comp card.


    The Model agrees that they shall not sell, license, distribute, or otherwise commercialize the Pictures, and that no third-party rights may be granted by the Model to any other person or entity.


    The Model further releases and agrees to hold harmless the Photographer, its parent company, subsidiaries, affiliates, officers, agents, employees, and representatives (collectively, the “Releasees”) from any and all claims, demands, liabilities, causes of action, and expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) arising from the use or publication of the Pictures, including any claims for libel, defamation, invasion of privacy, right of publicity, or infringement of moral rights.


    This release shall not apply in the limited event that the Pictures are used or published with malicious intent for the sole purpose of subjecting the Model to public scorn, ridicule, or indignity, and such intent can be demonstrably proven.


    The Model understands and acknowledges that participation in the photography session is voluntary and conducted in a professional manner. The Model also waives any claims for damages or injuries sustained during the session or on the premises, whether caused by the negligence of the Releasees or otherwise.


    This Agreement shall be binding upon the Model, as well as the Model’s heirs, legal representatives, successors, and assigns. The Model affirms that they are eighteen (18) years of age or older, have full legal capacity to execute this Agreement, and have read and understood its contents.


    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned parties have executed this Agreement as of the date written above.

    Signatures
    • Click to sign
      Model
    • Click to sign
      Jessica Clark
Customize & send this release

Minor Model Release Form

Anyone under 18 can't sign a binding contract, so this release is signed by a parent or legal guardian on the minor's behalf. Use it for child and teen models, senior portraits, sports and school shoots, and any session where you want to use a minor's photos beyond the family's own prints.

Minor model release form template cover page
Minor Model Release
[Photographer or Studio Name]
Agreement

This Minor Model Release Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into on , by and between:

Name of Parent or Legal Guardian (the “Guardian”):
Relationship to Minor:
Phone:

Minor’s Full Legal Name (the “Minor”):
Date of Birth:

Photographer’s Name (the “Photographer”):

Terms

In consideration of the engagement of the above-named Minor as a model, and for other good and valuable consideration as described, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, the undersigned Guardian hereby grants to the Photographer, his/her legal representatives, assigns, licensees, those for whom the Photographer is acting, and those acting with his/her authority and permission (collectively, “Photographer”), the absolute and irrevocable right and permission to take, use, reuse, publish, and republish photographic portraits or pictures of the Minor, or in which the Minor may be included, in whole or in part, or composite or distorted in character or form, without restriction as to alterations, in conjunction with the Minor’s own name, a fictitious name, or without any name, in any and all media now or hereafter known, for art, advertising, promotion, trade, editorial, educational, or any other lawful purpose whatsoever.

The undersigned Guardian further consents to the use of any accompanying text, graphics, video, or other editorial content that may be used or published in connection with the images.

The Guardian, on behalf of themselves and the Minor, hereby releases, discharges, and agrees to hold harmless and defend the Photographer, his/her legal representatives, assigns, and all persons acting under his/her authority or for whom he/she is acting, from any liability by virtue of any blurring, distortion, alteration, optical illusion, or use in composite form, whether intentional or otherwise, that may occur or be produced in the taking or processing of said images, or any subsequent publication or use thereof, including without limitation any claims for libel, defamation, or violation of any right of publicity or privacy.

The Guardian represents and warrants that they are of full legal age and have full authority to execute this release on behalf of the Minor, and that they have read and fully understand the contents of this release prior to signing it.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned Guardian has executed this Agreement as of the date first above written.

Signature
Parent/Guardian
Date

TFP Model Release (Trade for Prints)

In a TFP shoot (trade for prints, also called time for prints or trade for portfolio), the model poses in exchange for edited images instead of money. Because nobody is paid, it's easy to skip the paperwork, and that's where disputes start. This release spells out how many images the model gets, when they'll be delivered, and how each of you may use them.

TFP (trade for prints) model release form template cover page
Trade for Prints Release (TFP)
[Photographer or Studio Name]
Terms

This Trade-for-Prints Model Release Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into as of by and between the Model and the Photographer.

Model: Photographer:

Purpose
This Agreement sets forth the terms under which the Model agrees to participate in a photo session with the Photographer in exchange for a limited license to use the resulting images, in lieu of monetary compensation. This arrangement is commonly referred to as a “Trade-for-Prints” or “TFP” agreement.

Scope of Work
The Photographer agrees to photograph the Model on at . The style, concept, and number of final edited images will be mutually agreed upon prior to the shoot.

Compensation
In lieu of financial compensation, the Photographer agrees to provide the Model with professionally edited digital images within days following the photo shoot. The Photographer will deliver these images via (e.g., online gallery, Dropbox, email).

Rights Granted to Photographer
The Model grants the Photographer and their legal representatives, licensees, and assigns the irrevocable and unrestricted right to use and publish the photographs in which the Model may be included for editorial, trade, portfolio, website, promotional, social media, and artistic purposes.

Model Usage Rights
The Photographer grants the Model a non-exclusive, non-commercial license to use the final delivered images for personal use, self-promotion, portfolio display, and social media.

Release of Liability
The Model hereby releases the Photographer, their agents, and assigns from all claims, demands, and liabilities arising out of or in connection with the use of the images, including any claims for defamation or invasion of privacy.

Age of Model
The Model affirms that they are over the age of 18. If the Model is under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign below granting permission for the Model’s participation and release of image rights.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

Signatures
Model
Date
Photographer
Date
Parent/Guardian (if Model is under 18)
Date

Boudoir Model Release Form

Boudoir clients care most about privacy. Instead of a blanket release, this version lets the client choose: keep every image private, approve specific images, or allow promotional use, with or without their face. Use it for adult clients (18+) only.

Boudoir model release form template cover page
Boudoir Model Release
[Photographer or Studio Name]
Agreement

[Photographer or Studio Name] understands boudoir photography is very personal. We will not share images of you online without your permission. Please select one of the options below regarding your privacy preference:

  • #1. I would like my images to remain private. I do not give permission to share my images online.
  • #2. I will allow the Photographer to share images I have agreed to.
  • #3. I will allow the Photographer to share any and all of my images for promotional purposes only.

If you selected option #2, please list the file names of the images you feel comfortable sharing:

If you agreed to sharing your images, select your preference:

  • Allow images including my face
  • Only allow images with my face cropped out of them

Would you like to be tagged on social media? If yes, please include your social media handle:

Terms

Model, for good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is acknowledged, hereby grants to the Photographer, its legal representatives, assignees, and those acting under its authority, the unrestricted right and permission to copyright and/or use, and/or publish photographic portraits or pictures of the Model (the “Pictures”), and the negatives, transparencies, prints, or digital information pertaining to them, in still, single, multiple, moving or video format, or in which Model may be included in whole or in part, or composite, or distorted in form, or reproductions thereof, in color or otherwise, in any media for advertising or any other lawful purpose, subject to the privacy preferences selected above.

Model hereby relinquishes any right that they may have to examine or approve the finished product or products or the advertising copy or printed matter that may be used in connection with an image that Photographer has taken of the Model.

Model further releases Photographer, its parent company, subsidiaries, affiliates, officers, agents, servants, or employees (“Releasees”) from any claims for remuneration associated with any form of damage, foreseen or unforeseen, associated with the proper commercial or artistic use of these images unless it can be shown that said reproduction was maliciously caused, produced and published for the sole purpose of subjecting the Model to conspicuous ridicule, scandal, reproach, scorn and indignity. Model also waives any and all claims, demands, actions and causes of action whatsoever arising out of or related to any loss, damage, or injury, that may be sustained by Model, or any of the property belonging to Model, whether caused by the negligence of the Releasees, or otherwise, while performing the photography session, or while in, on or upon the premises where the photography session was performed.

Signatures
Model
Date
Send any of these releases for e-signature

What is a model release form?

A model release form is a signed agreement in which the person being photographed (the model) gives the photographer permission to use their likeness. It spells out which images are covered, how and where they can be used, and what the model gets in return. It also protects the photographer from claims such as invasion of privacy or misuse of the model's likeness. The model must be 18 or older to sign. For anyone younger, a parent or guardian signs a minor model release.

What to include in a model release form

Most model releases follow the same format. Whether you use a template from this page or write your own, include:

How to make a model release form

  1. Start from a template. Copy one of the templates on this page, or open it in Lightfolio to edit it online.
  2. Customize it. Add your studio name and logo, the shoot details and what the model receives. Remove rights you don't need; a narrower release is easier to get signed.
  3. Get it signed before the shoot. Send it for e-signature so the model can sign on their phone, or print it and bring it to the session. Keep the signed copy with the images.

When do you need a model release?

You need a model release whenever you use an image of an identifiable person commercially, meaning to advertise or promote a product, service or business. That includes ads, brochures, packaging, stock photos licensed for commercial use, and images you use to market your own photography business.

A release generally isn't required for editorial use, such as news, documentary work, education or commentary, and photos where no one is identifiable usually don't need one either. Rules vary by country and state, and the line between editorial and commercial use isn't always obvious. If there's any chance you'll use an image to sell something, get a release.

What happens if you don't have a model release?

Without a signed release you still own your photos, and you can usually use them for editorial or personal purposes. But if you use someone's likeness commercially without permission, they can sue for invasion of privacy or violation of their right of publicity. A court can award damages or order you to stop using the images. You'll also be shut out of stock agencies and many clients, who won't accept images of people without a release on file. Getting a release after the shoot is possible but much harder, so get it signed first.

Model release vs. photo release vs. property release

ReleaseWho signsUse it for
Model releaseThe person photographed, or a parent or guardianPortrait, fashion, commercial and stock shoots where a person is the subject
Photo releaseA person giving an organization permission to use their photosSchools, events, businesses and nonprofits collecting permission from many people
Property releaseThe owner of a recognizable propertyHomes, interiors, artwork and other private property shown in commercial images

A model release is a specialized kind of photo release. It's written for planned shoots where the photographer directs the model and expects to use the images in a portfolio or commercially.

Model releases for stock photography

Stock agencies such as Adobe Stock, Getty Images and Shutterstock require a signed model release for every recognizable person in images licensed for commercial use. Without one, an image can only be submitted as editorial, if the agency accepts editorial content at all. Agencies typically ask for the shoot date and location and the model's date of birth and contact details, and some require a witness signature. Many provide their own release form or accept releases signed in their apps, so check the agency's requirements before you shoot.

Best practices

FAQ

Questions about model releases?

Is a model release form legally binding?

Yes. A signed model release is a contract. To hold up, it should identify both parties, describe the rights being granted, include some form of consideration, and be signed by a model who is at least 18 (or by a parent or guardian for a minor). Laws differ by state and country, so have an attorney review your release.

Does a model release need to be notarized or witnessed?

Generally no. A release is valid with the signatures of the model and the photographer. Some stock agencies require a witness signature, so check their rules if you plan to sell stock.

Can a model cancel a model release?

A release that says it's irrevocable and was given in exchange for consideration generally can't be withdrawn for images that were already taken. Releases with no consideration, or signed by a minor instead of a parent or guardian, are much easier to challenge.

Do I need a model release for a TFP shoot?

Yes. TFP shoots are where misunderstandings are most common, because no money changes hands. A TFP release sets out how many edited images the model receives, when, and how each of you may use them.

Do I need a model release for photos taken in public?

Not usually for editorial or artistic use. If you want to use a recognizable person's photo commercially, for advertising or stock for example, you need a release even if the photo was taken in public.

Are e-signed model releases valid?

In the US, electronic signatures are valid for most contracts under the federal ESIGN Act and state UETA laws, and many other countries have similar laws. An e-signed release also records who signed and when.

Disclaimer

The forms and contract templates made available on this website are a starting point and are offered for demonstration purposes only, and are not legal advice. When considering using any legal document, be sure to consult a practicing attorney to ensure the documents you use include the necessary language and that they comply with all laws in your area.
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