What are Photo Releases?
A Photo Release is a signed form giving the permission of the person/property owner featured to use the photo. There are two kinds of releases:
Model Releases are required if a face or part of the body is recognisable in your photo. We are especially careful when it comes to children, so in these cases we are stricter in assigning and monitoring releases. A release is still required even if it is a silhouette, taken from the back, or the person is slightly blurred.
Property Release are required if there are any identifiable private or public buildings/ landmarks in the photo. Intellectual property will also need a release from the brand owner featured, including logos, trademarks, product designs or artwork.
How do I get a Model Release?
Select any image that features the model, then click send release request using your desired messaging app or email. Beneath is a handy tutorial for our apps:
Want to know more about releases? Check out our in-depth Magazine article What is a Photo Release and When Do You Need it?
What if my Model features in more than one photo?
If your model appears in more than one photo, you can send out multiple releases. Here are the steps to follow with a video tutorial below:
- Log in to EyeEm on the web
- Under the Notifications tab click 'Photos Need Permissions'
- Click “Release for multiple photos”
- Select all photos that show the same person
- Click Next and fill out the Model’s name
- Click Next and share the link with your Model
(Multi Release Management from EyeEm on Vimeo.)
Once they've signed the release you will be notified and it will go under a short review so our team can check it. After this is should be made available for sale on Market.
Do you accept Releases from other agencies?
We prefer Model Releases that are sent and signed through EyeEm, however, if you already have a signed Release from another stock photography platform, you can upload it as a PDF. It is also possible to upload PDF releases created with the Easy Release app.
How do I get a Property Release?
You will have to track down the Property Owner in order to ask for a release. However, this can be tricky and there is no guarantee they will sign. Therefore, we recommend editing your photos or adjusting them while you shoot to avoid needing a release. For tips on editing logos out of images, check out our Magazine article, How to Edit Logos and Brands Out of Your Photos and Why It Could Make You Money
Please do not sign for releases that you do not own the rights to because this will delay the review process. It is important to also understand that by submitting photos with incorrect releases you expose yourself to legal risk, should an issue occur.
Want to know more details and Insider Tips about releases? Check our handy Magazine article giving you the full break down of What is a Photo Release and When Do You Need it?