Model Release Forms 

This lecture taught us about the guidance and laws when regarding using other people in photography. It is advised that A model release form is used which is basically a contract between the photographer and the people being used in the images, particularly in portraiture. It protects the photographer and models if there is a dispute, and makes clear how the images can be used. A model release form usually includes:

• The date
• Names of the models
• what the models receive for modelling (money, experience etc)
• the purposes that the model consents to having the images used for (commercial use, portfolio display, public display etc)
• if they are comfortable having the images used outside of the UK
• the contact information of the photographer and models in case the terms change
• that the model confirms that they are over 18, if not they will need consent of the parents

The Royal Photographic Society have created a model release form that is available online for anyone to print out and use: rps-model-release-form-pdf.pdf

Freedom of Expression

The right to freedom of expression protects our ability to take photographs which can sometimes confuse with consent laws, it is important to know your rights especially when when being controversial.

Article 10 – Freedom of expression:

1 – “Everyone has the right to freedom of expression. This right shall include freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart information and ideas without interference by public authority and regardless of frontiers. This Article shall not prevent States from requiring the licensing of broadcasting, television or cinema enterprises.

2 – The exercise of these freedoms, since it carries with it duties and responsibilities, may be subject to such formalities, conditions, restrictions or penalties as are prescribed by law and are necessary in a democratic society, in the interests of national security, territorial integrity or public safety, for the prevention of disorder or crime, for the protection of health or morals, for the protection of the reputation or rights of others, for preventing the disclosure of information received in confidence, or for maintaining the authority and impartiality of the judiciary.”

Human Rights Act 1998 (legislation.gov.uk)

I can see how this law can easily be twisted, for example you could peacefully protest something which you could argue is ‘necessary in a democratic society’, but could accuse the same thing of being an infringement on ‘the protection of rights of others.’ This means that you have to be very careful and know your laws well if you are being controversial.