Today, more and more photographers are looking for ways to make money from photography. As a result, templates for photographers such as model and property release forms are more relevant than ever before. Some photographers prefer to use model releases in PDF format. But the far more efficient options is to use a model release app. This article recommends two model release apps in particular.
What is a release and why do I need it?
If you have even the slight possibility that one day you might try to use an image commercially or make money from it, you probably need a release.
Model release
Supports the permission of the model to be photographed and to use the resulting image in a determined way, such as selling it. There are two main types of model releases: a regular release for adults, and a minor release or parental consent form for those under the age of 18. Get free template downloads and learn more about Model Releases and Parental Consent Forms.
Property release
Similar to a model release, a property release confirm that the owner of a private property (buildings, works of art, pets, etc.) grants a photographer permission to take a photo of their property and use the final image in a determined way, such as selling it. Get a free template and learn more about Property Releases.
Best Model Release Apps for Photographers
Traditionally, model and property releases had to be printed and signed hard copies. Some photographers and companies may prefer this method of collecting releases. However, mobile phone model release apps also exist and can make this process much more efficient. Here are two apps in particular that I have used before to gather model releases. While both apps require payments to get all features unlocked, their overall usefulness completely justified spending a few bucks.
Model Releaser App
This app features a clean and easy-to-use interface. While the base app is free, it only contains one generic model release form. You must pay extra fees to unlock other model release forms, which might be better for photographers who only need a limited amount of releases.
Learn More: Model Releaser for Android | No iOS version available
Free features
- Take a picture of your model with your camera phone
- Collect model’s signature quickly and easily.
- Save releases as PDF file to email e-mail or upload to Google Drive.
- Database of your saved model releases for easy access.
- View PDF in-app for convenience.
Paid features
- Insert your company’s logo automatically to each contract. ($1.99 upgrade)
- Adult Model Release ($1.99)
- Minor Model Release ($1.99)
- Property Model Release ($1.99)
- Portfolio Release ($1.99)
- Or buy all paid options for $7.99
Easy Release App
Slick and convenient, Easy Release is slightly more expensive at $9.99, but its features are essential for any professional photographer. Easy Release comes pre-loaded with industry standard model and property releases that have been approved for use by major stock photography companies including Getty Images and iStock Photo. These releases are also available in 17 languages, making it ideal for traveling or international photographers.
Learn More: Easy Release for Android | Easy Release for iOS
In Conclusion
Model release apps make it easier for you to make money from photography. Have you used one of these model release apps before, or do you have your own app recommendation? Let me know in the comments below!
Great article, just found your website will be reading alot more of the content. After researching this field, these are the two Andriod apps that have caught my attention. Easy Release has the benefit of having the approval of large stock agencies for model release. Is this worth the price tag? I’m in process of creating my portfolio, and going to start my application to a few agencies. I was thinking of using the free Model Releaser to get started as it’s no investment, but it would suck if these model release forms aren’t widely accepted. As a first timer, what would you recommend?
I think it depends on how many stock agencies you plan to submit photos to. If you have a bunch in mind (plus a lot of photos you’d need releases for) then Easy Release is probably worth the investment. But if you’re starting out with just a small batch of photos, then perhaps start out with Model Releaser and then move over the paid option when you see fit. Hope this helps!