model release question

rdodson · Nov 14, 2004

I have been doing nature photography almost exclusively and am now branching out into other areas.

I have a question concerning the use of images that contain people. If images contain people that one can identify, does the photographer need a model release? I know one can some times get around the release if the image is at a public event, but what if it's just a random public place?

Thanks any input will be appreciated!

ferny · Nov 15, 2004

There was a thread about this a while ago. I just used the search button to find it. You may find what you want in it.

http://www.thephotoforum.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=11958

Hertz van Rental · Nov 15, 2004

If it is a random public place (the key word is 'public') then you do not need their permission UNLESS you single them out (Hey look, I caught this guy picking his nose...). The legal reasoning is that you did not ask them to be in the picture and at public gatherings people always take pictures: if you don't want to be in one don't go to public places.

rdodson · Nov 15, 2004

Wow, I read the threads. It seems most everybody has a different idea of the legality of the issue.

No wonder I like nature photography more... I've yet to have a rattlesnake say "hey buddy, if you're gonnna use that you gonna need to cut me a check"

Thanks for the input!