TFP Model Release Question

[roastdawgg]

The other day I had a fellow photographer tell me that when doing model releases for a TFP shoot you are obligated as a photographer to give the model atleast $1.00 for legal reasons or something. Can anyone make light of this?

[Jon]

TFP = Time For Prints

If your release states that the model's compensation is agreed upon images from the shoot, and you deliver those images, your obligation with respect to compensation is satisfied. If your release states that the model's compensation is agreed upon images from the shoot and $1.00, and you deliver those images and $1.00, your obligation with respect to compensation is satisfied. If your release states that the model's compensation is an ice cream cone, and you buy her an ice cream cone, your obligation with respect to compensation is satisfied. See where I'm going with this? It doesn't really matter what the compensation actually is, as long as it's noted and you actually deliver it in order to satisfy your obligation.

*This is not legal advice. For legal advice, consult an Intellectual Property contractual attorney licensed to practice in your locale.*

[kgphoto]

In the old days when you shot someone on the street and wanted to get a picture release you had them sign a generic release and paid them a dollar so there was some compensation. Most people back then didn't care if you took their picture. Now that you can circulate and defame someone, it is harder. Once you toss usage savvy photogs and models into the mix, it gets even more complicated.

[tomrock]

"In exchange for valuable consideration" used to be a common line on model releases and some people would tell you you needed to actually exchange money, hence the $1.00. I wouldn't worry about it myself but I'm not a lawyer and this certainly isn't advice.