Celebrity & Model Release Q
Rsnizle
Registered Users Posts: 1 Beginner grinner
Hi Everyone,
I had a Q about photographing celebrities in concert. I have a bunch of really great shots and I want to sell them, do I need a model release in order to do that? Or will I get in trouble?
I had a Q about photographing celebrities in concert. I have a bunch of really great shots and I want to sell them, do I need a model release in order to do that? Or will I get in trouble?
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Your question begs for clarification on several issues but before we start up another new thread on a subject already discussed many times I'll ask you to do two things
1) use the "search" feature to find old threads on this subject
2) visit the sticky PHOTOG RESOURCES thread at the top of the MYOB forum. You'll find links there to informative information about model releases.
Moderator of: Location, Location, Location , Mind Your Own Business & Other Cool Shots
As with most forms of photography, the use of the image is what will or will not get you into trouble. It is also the use of the image that dictates whether you need a release or not.
If you are selling the images to a magazine or newspaper or tv station, they will have their own requirements on releases that may or may not be the same as general rules of releases. They do this to cover their butt.
If I had images of a celebrity that I thought may have value outside of journalistic uses, I would sit down with my attorney. A celeb caught in a compromising position may take issue with the image. People have funny ways to determining what is compromising to them, that may not be the same as others.
I am not talking about being naked or picking their nose, but something such as a certain celeb drinking a brand of beer other than the one that they endorse. It is possible that the person may believe that as a result of your image it may cost them endorsement dollars. Now this is just an example, but you should get the point.
I learned years ago that it is easier to cover your butt in the beginning than after the fact.
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Where and to whom do you want to sell them? Has a buyer already approached you?
In general, concert photos are a dime a dozen- no real market for them unless you have been hired to photograph a specific band for use on merchandising and promotion.
Also, if you were there on a photo pass and had to sign something to get in, you have probably already signed away any legal rights you have to the photos.
Can't really answer your question without more specific information from you.