Paparazi 'model release'

[muppetdave]

A thought occurred to me the other day. Supposedly we all get signed model release forms when taking photos of people, but what is the stance on a pap taking a photo - did the chap get Charles and Camilla to sign their life away after getting the photos of them trapped in the Rolls Royce?

[minky monkey]

They're in a public place, so no need. You don't need mr forms for that sort of work, anyway. They're only useful for commercial jobs, advertising etc.

As long as you're not portraying someone to be something they're not, or breaking court orders, you've got no worries about lawsuits.

[MartinP]

There's no need for a model release for editorial use. Just need to make sure you don't break the laws on privacy and trespass when taking the shot.

ETA - MM beat me to it...

Edited by MartinP on Saturday 8th January 11:38

[GetCarter]

It's largely down to whether the photo is taken in a public place or not (though there are complications).

[GetCarter]

(you wait 10 mins then 3 come along at the same time)

[muppetdave]

Ah right thanks for that - was just a random question that came to mind. So I may be being thick, but if the image I mentioned as an example was used in an advertising campaign rather than editorial there might be a problem?

[Simpo Two]

muppetdave said:

if the image I mentioned as an example was used in an advertising campaign rather than editorial there might be a problem?

Almost certainly as you're then involving them in a commercial enterprise/implication/endorsement etc.

[FasterFreddy]

Here's an example of what can happen...

http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2010/nov/14/mcd...

[muppetdave]

Really interesting, thanks again. Goes to show what a minefield it can be. The McD story was interesting, and I think good luck to the owners of Badger - I do hope they don't sue though.