Hello,

This is copy of a post I did in the Ask Steve forum. I realized it might be more appropriate for this forum.

Hi guys,

Do you or anyone else have any suggestions on handling releases for individual images taken during an event such as a family reunion, birthday party, etc. Is there a way to get a bulk release for all images taken during the course of the event? Who would sign such a release? Can the person signing the release do so for everyone attending? I have seen many event photographers place images online of people and things taken during the course of the event where the images were used as examples, i.e. advertising, for their work. I realize that at some events such as charity, concerts, modeling or contests, the participants are required to sign releases by the event organizer.

Regards,
George

Hi George,

Thank you for reposting this note here...I eagerly await some clarification on this issue too.

Carolyn,
Are you there?

Hi, Guys. sorry for the delay in responding. My answers are in CAPS below:

Is there a way to get a bulk release for all images taken during the course of the event? NO,SORRY. EACH PERSON HAS TO CONSENT/SIGN A RELEASE.

Can the person signing the release do so for everyone attending? ABSOLUTELY NOT UNLESS THE PERSON HAS POWER OF ATTORNEY FOR EVERYONE ELSE (OR IS THE PARENT/GUARDIAN FOR MINORS). I have seen many event photographers place images online of people and things taken during the course of the event where the images were used as examples, i.e. advertising, for their work. I realize that at some events such as charity, concerts, modeling or contests, the participants are required to sign releases by the event organizer. IF THE USE OF THE PHOTOGRAPHS IS EDITORIAL, THEN NO MODEL RELEASE IS NEEDED. THEREFORE, IF THE PHOTOS ARE DOCUMENTING AN EVENT AND ARE NOT USED FOR ADVERTISING OR PROMOTION OR TRADE, THEN GENERALLY THE USE IS CONSIDERED TO BE EDITORIAL RATHER THAN COMMERCIAL SO NO MODEL RELEASE IS NEEDED. BUT IT'S ALWAYS BEST TO HAVE THE MODEL RELEASE!