New York model release form
Generate a model release tuned to New York shoots, reflecting the state's written-consent rule for advertising and trade use. Preview free; unlock the branded version once.
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A release built for New York shoots
New York is unusually specific about this. Civil Rights Law §50 makes it a misdemeanor to use a living person's name, portrait, or picture for advertising or trade purposes without their written consent, and §51 gives that person a civil claim for damages. The word that matters is written — a verbal "sure, go ahead" does not satisfy §50.
For photographers working in New York City, Brooklyn, or upstate, that makes a signed model release the document the statute is asking for. A portrait that ends up in an ad, a campaign, or a stock library without written consent puts the use squarely inside what §51 lets a subject sue over. The form below builds a New York model release that captures that written consent before the shoot is published.
You answer a short set of questions and SignedShoot generates the release. The preview is a complete, watermarked document; paying once adds your branding. SignedShoot provides document templates, not legal advice.
Why written consent is the whole point in New York
Because §50 requires consent in writing, a New York model release is not a courtesy — it is the form the statute presumes you obtained. The generated release names the photographer and subject, describes the shoot, and records the advertising or trade usage scope you selected, with the term spelled out.
When the subject is under 18, the written consent has to come from a parent or guardian instead. Use the minor model release generator for New York shoots involving children — it carries the guardian-consent block and covers the "minor model release New York" intent. The watermarked preview is free; unlocking gives you an editable .docx and a clean PDF, generated in your browser. This reflects standard industry practice and is not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
- What law governs a model release in New York?
- New York Civil Rights Law §50 and §51. Section 50 requires written consent to use a living person's name, portrait, or picture for advertising or trade; §51 gives the person a civil claim if you do not have it.
- Does verbal permission count in New York?
- No. Section 50 specifically requires written consent for advertising or trade use. A signed model release is the written document the statute contemplates. SignedShoot provides document templates, not legal advice.
- What counts as advertising or trade use?
- Broadly, using someone's image to promote or sell something — ads, marketing, packaging, and most stock submissions. Editorial and news use is treated differently, but a signed release removes the uncertainty.
- Does this page cover minors in New York?
- No. For a subject under 18, the written consent §50 requires must come from a parent or guardian. Use the minor model release generator for New York shoots involving children.
- What does the New York model release cost?
- The watermarked PDF preview is free. Unlocking this release type is $29; the Forms Pack unlocks all seven types for $49. Both are one-time payments with no subscription.
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