Best Practices for Photo and Video Release Forms

The university advises photographers to obtain an individual model release when… 

  • Filming in an environment where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy (such as a classroom or lab), or  
  • The photo/video will be used for marketing or promotional purposes*, or  
  • A minor’s likeness in a photo or video is clearly recognizable, no matter the environment or usage. 

*Defined as an image paired with messaging that could be seen as an endorsement of that message by the individual in the photo. 

The university advises photographers or event organizers to post a notice of filming (crowd release) at events where there is not a reasonable expectation of privacy. This can be done in a variety of ways: 

  • Posted on the entrances and exits. 
  • Printed on tickets. 
  • Presented on event slides. 
  • Posted on the event website. 

If you have further questions about the use of photo & video releases, please email photos@colostate.edu. 

Resources


Notice of Filming

By entering this Colorado State University building, event, or program, you are entering an area where photography, audio, and video recording may occur. Through your entry, presence, or participation in or at the event premises, you acknowledge that you have been informed that you may be photographed, filmed, and/or otherwise recorded and grant the Board of Governors of the Colorado State University System permission to use your voice, name, and/or likeness without any compensation, credit, or other consideration for exploitation in any media now known or hereafter devised, in perpetuity, throughout the universe, and the advertising and publicity thereof. Furthermore, you hereby release the Board of Governors of the Colorado State University System, its officers, employees, and each and all persons involved from any liability connected with the taking, recording, digitizing, or publication and use of the above-mentioned recording including, but not limited to, any claims for invasion of privacy, violation of the right of publicity, defamation, copyright infringement, or for any fees, payment, or royalties for use of such recorded media.