What information is required on a property release?

First and foremost, all info entered on a property release must be factual. A release is a legal agreement, and any incorrect information may affect the legality (and your protection from the property owner).

See also: Who signs the property release?

Required information for every property release

• Full legal names (first and last) for photographer and owner
• Signatures of photographer and owner
• Property description (see note below)
• Full contact information (phone, email) for owner
• Full address where the property is located (if fixed)
• Shoot dates
  • Shoot start date and end date, even if the shoot is all in one day, OR
  • In the case of objects or works of art, an open-ended release is acceptable
  • Shoot dates on the release need to match the camera Exif shoot date

Optional but strongly recommended

• Shoot location and description
• Photo of all property covered by the release
• Witness name and signature

Signature Date

The date of signing should be the date the release was actually signed. It does not need to match the shoot date or any Exif data.

Property Description

Aim to be as clear and descriptive as possible in this field. For instance, if you’re shooting at an artist’s home, and the artist created all of the art on the wall, you will need to specify on the release that it covers the home and artwork. If you write “Artist’s Home,” we can’t assume the art is also covered. “Artist’s home, including all artwork on the walls” + a photo of the home and each piece of art covered is indisputable.

If the release covers several items, it is recommended that you list them in a separate schedule attached to the release and have the owner sign this page and the property release itself. Photos of the released property are always encouraged.