Contracts

Posted by Eric Bass on the Big Photo Hunt community board.

I've been working with an amateur model who has visions of fame. We've done some experimental work that she is impressed by and would like to somehow monetize to "make her famous". Since I've only sold work at gallery shows, I've never been down such a path. Some have advised me to create a contract with her to protect both of our interests going forward. I really only started doing the work for fun, and now it's getting noticed, hence her ambition. Where can I find templates that would speak to this situation?

Replies

Hayley Flint-ahern

I would look at modelling agencies and potentially reach out and ask about her chances at modelling and your experience and potential at modelling photography. Also small magazines and blogs would be great to get more exposure they would always have time for models and photographers where you may find an alternate route into the industry by just getting booked as a duo by people. It’s an interesting one as you could do it separately and see if her modelling is commercial and see if your images sell or see if you have a product as a model and photographer team

Kristian Pal

To cover your interests, I would download a standardized model release from one of the stock photo agencies.
Additionally make a written contract with her that states what she is allowed to do with the photos, e.g., display them on her website, but not sell without your consent. Specify that this is the compensation she gets for giving consent to the model release.
Just some tips, NOT LEGAL ADVICE.