Model Release for Minors

[lianarosephoto]

I am focusing my photo business on child portraits and want to make sure I am covering my bases with a model release for the minor. I would only be using the photos in my online portfolio and website, and possibly on flyers and advertising material. Obviously the child's parents need to sign for them, but is it necessary for both to sign? Was wondering because I read somewhere that it is better to get both signatures in case one tries to rescind permission. Also, is this an instance where the release needs to be notarized to make it official?

I am not at a point where I can consult a lawyer, since I am just at the beginning stages of even setting up my business, so I'm hoping someone here has had a similar question. Wasn't able to find anything by searching the forums, but any help would be appreciated!

 

[The_Traveler]

It isn't necessary, and might be extremely difficult, to get both parents to sign but a witness is a good idea.
Getting a notary puts a pall of importance on signing that the act doesn't deserve.
If you are in a situation where a parent wants to rescind permission, don't fight it, go with it. This is a fight you could never win.
The signed model release protects you against being sued for something you have already done but wouldn't be a good protection against doing something that the parent doesn't want you to do.

 

[vintagesnaps]

Professional photography organizations like ASMP have info. on releases and sample forms. In this one, the portion of the text that's in color is just an example of a specific type of possible use, you would omit that and type in your own if needed (to cover situations that are beyond general usage).
Model release for a minor child | American Society of Media Photographers

 

[KmH]

Do not rely on legal advice you get in an online photography forum.

Yes. It is desirable to get both parents signatures, but a parent and a witness is next best.

No. You do not need to get the document notarized.

Release law is state law so there are 50 different versions.
Make sure the language in the model release is applicable to the laws where you do business - California.
(This is what you need a qualified attorney for.)

A signed model release offers legal protection the model and any publisher of an image the model is in. When you use an image for advertising yourself, you become the publisher of the image.
You can be sued for anything at any time, regardless whatever documentation you may have on file.

Release law is not as cut and dried as laws like traffic laws.

I recommend this inexpensive book - A Digital Photographer's Guide to Model Releases: Making the Best Business Decisions with Your Photos of People, Places and Things