California model release form
Generate a model release tuned to California shoots, with wording that reflects the state's right-of-publicity rule. Preview free; unlock the branded, editable version once.
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A release built for California shoots
California treats a person's name and likeness as something they control. Civil Code §3344 gives an individual a statutory right against use of their name, voice, photograph, or likeness for advertising or selling without prior consent. That statute is why a signed release matters once images go commercial.
Shoots in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, and Sacramento run into this constantly: a portrait used in an ad, a stock submission, a brand campaign. Without a release, the subject can later object and point straight at §3344. The form below builds a California model release that records consent in advance — you answer questions about the shoot, the subject, and the intended use, and SignedShoot generates the document.
The preview is a real, signable release with a watermark. Paying once removes it and adds your studio name and logo. SignedShoot provides document templates, not legal advice.
What the California release records
The release names the photographer and the subject, describes the shoot, and sets out the usage scope you chose against California's §3344 framing for commercial use of name and likeness. It states the term and confirms consent was given before publication.
If your subject is under 18, a standard release is not enough — California consent for a minor comes from a parent or guardian. Use the minor model release generator for those shoots; it adds the guardian-consent block and supports the "minor model release California" intent that this page does not. The watermarked PDF preview is free; unlocking gives you an editable .docx and a clean PDF, built in your browser. This document reflects standard industry practice and is not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
- What law governs a model release in California?
- California Civil Code §3344 gives a person a statutory right against use of their name, voice, photograph, or likeness for advertising or selling without prior consent, alongside the common-law right of publicity. A signed model release is the written consent that statute contemplates.
- Do I always need a release for a California shoot?
- For commercial use — advertising, selling a product, stock libraries — yes, a signed release protects you under §3344. Purely editorial or personal use is more flexible, but a release removes the question. SignedShoot provides document templates, not legal advice.
- Does this page cover minors in California?
- No. A subject under 18 cannot consent for themselves, so a parent or guardian must sign. Use the minor model release generator for those shoots — it adds the guardian-consent block California shoots of children need.
- What does the California model release cost?
- The watermarked PDF preview is free. Unlocking this one release type is $29; all seven types are $49 with the Forms Pack. The fee is one-time, with no subscription.
- Are the subject's details uploaded anywhere?
- No. The California release is generated entirely in your browser. The subject's name and email are never sent to or stored on a server — only your email and payment reach Stripe at checkout.
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