iStock changes model release policies

iStockphoto recently changed its model release requirements, which will affect the work flow of any stock photographer, connected with iStock. The new guidelines, which go in effect on 1 September 2009, will also affect the models we’re using, as they will be required to fill in a new form for each and every shoot. This means a lot more paper work and hassle for everyone.

These changes are reflected in our new universal model release, which we will be using from now on.

• • Download the universal model release for adults 18+!
  • The property release form can be found here!
    

The main changes to the new iStock policy are:

• A new release signed and dated for every photo shoot.
• Model, witness and photographer have to sign the release in the presence of each other
• Filing birth dates are now compulsory for all model releases

These changes go in effect on 1 September 2009, and will apply for all shoots on and after that date. Images from shoots before 1 September can still use the existing model releases, so there is no need to update releases for models who attended shoots before coming Tuesday.

A few notes, more information and changes to the universal model release – click on the read more link

Notes on model releases:

• A model release is a legal document, and should be treated as such. It is strongly recommended to follow the new guidelines, despite how tedious and time consuming they may be.
• Pay attention that the model release form is filled out properly and completely. No abbreviations, full addresses (iStock now also accepts PO boxes, however, other sites don’t)
• Inform models about their rights, and explain the purpose of model releases. Also tell them, what it actually means: By signing a model release for a specific shoot, there is no control over who uses the images for what purpose. (with the exception of inflammatory, personification or illegal/racist/hatred inspiring context) in Royalty Free Photography.

More information:

• The full article on new iStock guidelines (page 1 | page 2)
• The iStock forum, discussing these changes
• The independant Microstock group forum

Notes on the universal model release:

• Version 2 of the universal model release for adults now also covers videogaphers, and not only photographers
• Fields for adding dates of birth are added to the model release form
• More specific instructions have been added
• This model release form should be accepted by all microstock agencies, but corepics does not take responsibility for rejected forms. If you use the text in our form, you do so at your own risk.