In today’s world it not unlikely for someone to get photographed whether intentionally or not, and being posted on social media or other platforms. There may be some consequences to such actions. In most cases, people may not want their images plastered all over without permission. In such case, a media release form is acts as a legal approvement between parties before releasing.
This form may provide options on how the content will be utilized, the form provide specification for a particular activity, and therefore commonly one-time use only. All content type should be underlined in the form and examples of potential scenarios may also be involved.
What Is a Media Release Form?
A Media Release Form is often referred to as a Media Consent Release. It is a legal binding document that grants authorization for a party to produce, use, reuse, edit videos, take pictures, print, and record an individual.
By signing a release forms, the signatories approve the use of their faces and voices for the finished publication. The form may be signed before or after the impacted party has participated in the recording.
Individuals under the age of 18 will need their legal guardian to sign the form. This is needed since the parents are the ones who need to approve in behalf of their kids. Media release forms are typically for those who are in their legal age only and have the ability to understand what they are signing for and responsible for their own actions.
General Media Release Form
Parental Consent and Media Release Form
Sample Interviewee Media Release Form
Sample Student Media Consent and Release Form
Social Media Consent Release Form
Student Activities Media Release Form
When Do We Need It?
Media release forms are generally used for film and photography agreements to prevent any complications when the finished product is published. In most instances when film companies are shooting in public places, it’s impossible to have every passer by sign release forms.
Besides, it’s too time-consuming and an almost impossible task to undertake. The solution is to put up a sign or a notice visible to the public, stating to anyone who happens to pass by in the process of filming agree to be on the film. It saves a lot of hassle and paperwork.
The best possible approach when filming and covering all the bases would be to bring media release forms, minor release forms, and location release forms to avoid any unnecessary inconvenience. It is strongly advised to consult a lawyer to go over the forms before letting everyone concerned sign the forms for the film or photograph. It’s the only way to be sure.
General Components
Each media release form may differ from one to another, as it does not have its own specified legal requirements that must be met. However, there is a general information that should be provided in each form. This includes the following.
- Printed Name
- Address
- Email and Phone Number
- Signature
- Names of the parties waiving rights for listed use.
- Names of the parties receiving rights of the listed media.
- Acknowledgement of Age
- Identification and consent of Legal Guardian. Required if the party waiving the rights is a minor.
- Types of content a media release form Covers
Before you decide to shoot that footage and post it on social media, you have to make sure you’ll have everyone sign media release forms so there won’t be any objections.
The issue of privacy is one of utmost concern anybody, not just actors only. For children, the concern of pedophilia in some parts of the world are a real concern. Therefore, a media release form is necessary to ensure that in case of any publication of photograph or recording, is legally approved by any party whom are concerned in the making.
