Releases (Model • Location • Brand)

Last updated: 2025-09-25 • Questions: legal@sonamak.org

When we’ll ask for a Model Release (person’s permission)

• Owner/staff appear on camera (face or distinctive tattoos/voice).
• Client-provided photos/videos feature a recognizable person.
• Testimonials or “before/after” portrayals with a real person.
• Close-ups or featured roles (even in public places).
• Minors (under 18): parent/guardian must sign.
• AI/synthetic likeness of a real person (face/voice) — requires both Model Release and our Likeness/AI Consent.

Not typically required for incidental background passers-by who are not identifiable (we still avoid or blur).

When we’ll ask for a Location/Property Release

• Private property interiors (homes, offices, clinics, warehouses).
• Privately owned public spaces (malls, gyms, venues) where the owner sets rules.
• Distinctive exteriors clearly identifiable as someone’s property.
• Artwork, murals, sculptures, décor that are a key visual element.
• Branded vehicles, uniforms, or signage owned by another company.

Not usually needed for generic, non-identifiable backgrounds or licensed stock we provide.

When we’ll ask for Brand/Logo Permission

• Third-party logo or trademark is visible and not your own brand.
• Partner badges or manufacturer marks that could imply endorsement.
• App/UI screenshots of non-client software beyond fair use.

For your own logo, your Order/Agreement covers it.

Why releases matter (for you)

• Legal safety: avoids right-of-publicity and property claims.
• Ad approvals: platforms often ask for proof; releases speed reviews.
• Reuse freedom: re-run or repurpose assets without re-negotiating.

What our releases cover (plain English)

• Scope & rights: permission to use image/voice in ads for your business.
• Media & territory: all standard digital placements, worldwide.
• Time period: usually perpetual for the finished ad (or fixed term if you prefer).
• Edits/derivatives: cut-downs, captions, aspect ratios, translations.
• Compensation: states if/what the signer is paid (often “no further payment”).
• AI clause (if applicable): allows generation/editing of a consenting person’s likeness within guardrails (no political/harmful impersonations).
• Revocation limits: stopping new uses after notice; no recall of already-published ads.

For full AI/biometric terms, see our Likeness/AI Consent.

How we handle the paperwork

• Templates: Model Release, Location/Property Release, Brand Use Letter.
• E-sign: mobile-friendly signing; we may request ID for age/identity verification.
• Storage: releases stored with the project record; ID images retained only for verification and deleted per our retention policy.
• Access: copies available to you on request for ad reviews or audits.

Quick decision guide

• A real person is featured? → Model Release.
• It’s a private place or branded venue? → Location/Property Release.
• A third-party logo/brand is visible? → Brand Permission.
• Real person’s face/voice is AI-generated or edited? → Model Release + Likeness/AI Consent.