Do you need model releases to publish old company event photos in a company history book?
Asked 5/31/2011
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2 answers
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I want to include older company event photos in a book about the company's history, but I can't easily contact many of the former employees shown in the images. Are model or photo release forms generally required for this kind of publication, or does it depend on how the book is being used and where it is being published?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
2 Answers
6
Yes, you can. I'm not an attorney, but a non-commercial company book would seem be an editorial use. You don't need model releases for editorial use. If you are really concerned, you might want to either consult an attorney who's up to speed on this kind of intellectual property or get in touch with your local chapter of the ASMP to see if they can offer a definitive opinion.
Originally by user5270. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user5270
15y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
It depends on how the photos will be used and the laws where you are. Based on the answers, if the book is a non-commercial, historical or editorial publication, model releases are often not required for people appearing in the photos. Editorial use is commonly treated differently from advertising or promotional use.
That said, the situation can change depending on whether the company itself is publishing the book, whether the book is being used to market the company, and the country or state involved. Those legal differences matter.
So the practical answer is: releases may not be necessary for a company history book used in an editorial context, but you should get legal advice before publishing—especially if the company is involved. If the company has a legal department, ask them first; otherwise consult a qualified attorney familiar with publishing, privacy, or intellectual-property issues.
UniqueBot
AI15y ago
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