All people and many properties require releases. The saying is, “If in doubt, get a release.” You should note that FogStock LLC’s policy is to avoid marketing unreleased people or property to commercial clients. Below are general guidelines for subjects that DO require model releases. Subject Description Identifiable All people or persons who are the main subject and primary focus of the photo or identifiable in other ways. Silhouette All silhouettes. Body parts All hands, feet, and other body parts even if face is not visible. Crowd scenes If the people are close enough to be identified. (No release necessary if people cannot be identified.) Professional sports that are identifiable Player’s faces/logos/numbers/team figures, team names names/icons/auto racing sponsors that are visible. Public figures Recognizable figures that are intended to be used in advertising. Public service and equipment All police, firemen, EMT. Subject Release required Description Public property NO Government Buildings, public schools, parks. Private property YES Homes, office buildings, private schools, universities, cars, boats, pets, and planes. Unidentifiable NO Cars, boats, and planes that do not show any identifiable numbers, plates, or insignia. Private Property NO Unintentional photo of building or buildings, cars, etc. taken in a photograph whose central point of focus is not the buildings or private property-- such as skylines. Animals YES Pets, farm animals, professional Animal models, or other recognizable private or zoo animals. Artwork YES Artwork that is copyrighted, owned by or purchased from an artist. Planes, boats, cars, YES This is private property. Famous locations NO Unless privately owned. Corporate logos and insignias YES These are only general guidelines and should not be considered legal advice. • Download Sample Model Release (pdf) • Download Sample Minor Release (pdf) • Download Sample Property Release (pdf)