I am planning on attending an event this weekend which might provide an opportunity for candid shots. I rarely shoot people, so I don't know very much about model releases. What kind will be necessary for a candid shot?
Spiller posted a link to this form earlier this month, so I'm not worried so much about the actual form as the mechanics of when I need one and getting it signed.
I think that if I shoot a crowd of people where no one person stands out or is recognizable, I don't need a release. How many people make a crowd? I would guess that a three person shot requires releases from everyone. Does a six person shot?
What if I shoot a person who is recognizable, but I don't actually have any contact with that person to get them to sign a release - maybe something like an amateur waterskier who goes by but never comes ashore near me? I'm trying not to give away the type of event in case I actually do get a shot, but this may be a very real issue for me.
I haven't had a chance to read it all yet, but there's a relatively current discussion in the Forum: Tips&Tricks/In Front Of the Camera, maybe located at this link.
Probably most US residents know the term throught the TV show "Candid Camera" (two versions) originated by Allen Funt. The older show was probably funnier overall, even though my mom appeared in some episodes of the later version hosted by Dom DeLuise. The same "hidden camera" technique is used in phychological testing...
Do you really need a model release form if the shot is taken in PUBLIC?
if it's at a private event or someone's home, then you probably need one, but in public, I don't think you do. TV news certainly don't have to get permission to show things they have obtained shooting int he public, so, i don't see the distinction.
Originally posted by Amphian: I am planning on attending an event this weekend which might provide an opportunity for candid shots. I rarely shoot people, so I don't know very much about model releases. What kind will be necessary for a candid shot?
Spiller posted a link to this form earlier this month, so I'm not worried so much about the actual form as the mechanics of when I need one and getting it signed.
I think that if I shoot a crowd of people where no one person stands out or is recognizable, I don't need a release. How many people make a crowd? I would guess that a three person shot requires releases from everyone. Does a six person shot?
What if I shoot a person who is recognizable, but I don't actually have any contact with that person to get them to sign a release - maybe something like an amateur waterskier who goes by but never comes ashore near me? I'm trying not to give away the type of event in case I actually do get a shot, but this may be a very real issue for me.
I would agree that you don't have to get a release if you take the pic in public and don't plan on using it commercially. Some folks are gonna have a problem with you taking their picture though so either get permission or don't make it obvious that you're shooting. Also, public is a tricky thing. Malls and carnivals, for example, are privately owned.
Originally posted by indigo997: I would agree that you don't have to get a release if you take the pic in public and don't plan on using it commercially. Some folks are gonna have a problem with you taking their picture though so either get permission or don't make it obvious that you're shooting. Also, public is a tricky thing. Malls and carnivals, for example, are privately owned.
Good point. In those situations the venue can and sometimes will restrict photography. I know at least one supermarket that has signs on their door prohoboting photography/videotaping on the premises. If photographing at a place of business be sure to check with management to make sure it's ok first.
-Terry
* This message has been edited by the author on 8/28/2002 3:16:23 PM.
This was taken in a small toy shop. Obviously the bears didn't require model releases, :-) but I did have to ask the owner if I could take some shots inside the store. A few puzzled looks and explainations later, he agreed. Better safe than sorry in a situation like that. As far as a crowded public place, I'd probably use stealth mode rather than ask permission. :-D
* This message has been edited by the author on 8/28/2002 3:22:47 PM.
This is slightly off topic, but still valid. I like to visit art galleries (stores) {very inspiring}. I ALWAYS ask the owner of the store for permission to take pictures prior to shooting anything. (I have been shown the door on a number of previous occations, so I am much more careful now.) You can be sued by the artist, even if you don't make any $$$ off the shot. Technically, it is "stealing" their art, unless you buy it ;)
Not being a parent, I don't think I would hazard an elementary school just now either. However we have a couple of collage campuses and several exersize trails. The public sculpture outside city hall might work as bait. If only I didn't have a 40 hr. job. lol
I usually dont ask for permision in public places, because it upsets a perfect shot usually... and its just weird feeling and annoying, etc... although I usually dont take shots of people...
I found this thread very helpful. After reflecting on it, I think it comes down to: 1. Keep it legal 2. Respect people as you would want to be respected. ("The Golden Rule") 3. Find your own comfort level for this potentially delicate situation.
For me, even after reading this, I am very skiddish about this. Just last week my wife read an article in the newspaper about a man that was stopped and questioned by police because he was taking pictures of people. It is unfortunate that due to evil elements in this world (stalkers, abductors, abusers, etc.), innocent photographers just trying to capture a wonderful moment are treated suspiciously. I must admit, I would react the same way to anyone photographing my family without my permission. I have two daughters and I worry about their safety constantly (and yet the youngest is 21).
