Etiquette of using client's photos on website

[katew]

I don't know if I'm posting this in the right place, but feel free to move it if not.

What's the etiquette for using clients' photos on your website to show examples of your work? On my site, I use ones from my own family, but I'd like to use real examples of work I've done for clients. Can you just put them on the site? Do you just ask the client if he/she minds or do you ask them to give written permission or what?

I'm thinking that some photos are done as gifts, so if someone does a vanity search they might find them before they're supposed to, iykwim. And there's also the question of the copyright of the original and retouched photos.

I'm confused - can anyone help? I'm in the UK if that makes any difference as regards copyright etc.

[Doug Nelson]

UK makes a lot of difference for copyright, but not much for etiquette. Etiquette would dictate that you should at least ask permission from the client. However, copyright might require much more. My own suggestion would be to at least get permission in writing, along with a declaration that they are in a position to give said permission.

Perhaps someone more familiar with UK copyright could fill in the blanks.

[katew]

Thanks Doug. I would, of course, ask the client, but I wondered about needing written permission - I would imagine an email would do?

[nevie]

I don't know anything about UK copyright laws but having a model release for all of your work isn't a bad idea, that way you will always be safe.

[sergio2263]

Originally Posted by katew

Thanks Doug. I would, of course, ask the client, but I wondered about needing written permission - I would imagine an email would do?

Hi Katew

I am in UK and I have asked permissions for lots of photos that I have restored. In Uk it's much easier with copyright Law and a written email to the owner is sufficient enough, from my experience most of my clients have been happy enough to grant me permission to use their photos for my website or gallery. I have many client photos in my gallery at pbase.

We are not as heavy with Copyright Law as in USA.

regards



helen

[katew]

Thanks Helen. I've asked a couple of clients via email, and they're only too happy to oblige.

[sergio2263]

Originally Posted by katew

Thanks Helen. I've asked a couple of clients via email, and they're only too happy to oblige.

Hi katew,

I am glad you've managed to get the photos you want. In UK most of the time a client would be happy to allow you using their photo without any problem.

cheers


helen

http://www.pbase.com/mstmart

[neeper]

I use this model release on all photos I take with people. Feel free to use it.

Model Release From

I hereby grant “your name here”, permission and unconditional rights to use, print, or allow to be published my photographic image and/or likeness for promotional and/or advertising purposes without compensation, restrictions, or limitations whatsoever.

Name: _______
Date: ________
Address: ________
Signature: _________

For Minor:
I am (circle one) father/mother/legal guardian of __________. I consent to the forgoing on his/her behalf.
Signature__________
Date _________

Photographer’s Notes:________________

www.williamtorrillo.com