Does anyone have a template for photo release forms. I've been taking pictures of our members for placing on the web site and want to get release forms signed for the adults/children before posting.

Also, would anyone have an opinion on whether a release form would be needed for say a picture of our choir - would I have to get everyone (30-40 people) to sign to put the picture up?

Thanks.
Bob.

Hi Bob,

Generally, for groups of adults, a blanket statement such as "By attending this event or participating in this group, you agree to allow your photo to be taken and used by the church in promotional material such as brochures, website, flyers, etc. If you do not wish for your photo to be used, please contact ..." You could even make such a statement for individual or small group photos. As a courtesy, you might consider telling people as you take their photo that it may show up on the website or in a newsletter. Since you only plan to use the photos for church communication, I don't believe you legally have to have permission from each individual person. If you planned to sell, redistribute, or reproduce the photos for another purpose, however, you would need a release.

On the other side of that is the issue of minors. A safe practice is to at least inform the parents or guardians of minors that their photo may be taken and placed on the website - a written and signed release is best. Most definitely don't put the names, addresses, emails, or schools of any minors whose photos you put on the website.

Hope that helps,

Barbara Bowser

Actually, we just had our attorney address the issue in a recent judicatory meeting. He says, because of the litigious climate of the US, he suggested we get releases for photos...plus for noting names in prayer requests, especially those in the hospital, and so on. Sooo, the attorney would say get a release from all the choir members. On the other hand, I agree with Barbara. Put something in the bulletin, newsletter, etc. and be careful about minors.

bill tenny-brittian

On photos, we get a release for anyone that can be recognized in a photo. Sometimes we even blur faces to obscure them if we do not have a release. And the release needs to state that the picture may be posted on the web.

In Him,
Mark

Mark, could you share with me a copy of your release form? I've done some googling for forms, but I'm not sure what they should say... If you can't share that, I'll see if one of our lawyer members can help me put one together.

Thanks.
Bob.

Yes, that would be helpful if someone could post a sample release form on here... something to start with is better than starting from scratch!

Thanks.

This may provide some idea of what you can do:

http://www.docstoc.com/docs/193082/blog_release

or

http://www.docstoc.com/docs/13070/Model-Release

Unfortunately, searching on their site seems to be a little off, but you can see what others are doing with their forms.

-Pete

Pete,
Thanks forthis info

Andre