What the f**k is a print release?
Let's talk about print releases - what are they? Why does it matter to you? How it helps inform your decision when you’re searching for a photographer.
When a photographer includes a print release as part of your session, they give you permission to share and print your images as you see fit. The photographer retains the original copyright of the photo (unless they specifically note otherwise in your session contract). While there are industry standards, every photographer does things differently, so it's essential to ask questions, carefully read over your contract, and get clear on exactly what you receive for image permissions from your session with that photographer.
Print releases are typically referring to personal usage of your images. This means you are able to freely share your photos on social media, print them for personal use and share them with your friends and family.
Typically this does not include the rights to edit or manipulate your images, claim them as your own work, or use them for commercial gain. Those changes are generally geared toward business and commercial clients and would be addressed in your contract under copyright permissions. Again, always make sure you check your contract for specific details on usage guidelines.
If you're searching for a photographer for a personal photoshoot (portraits, engagement photos, senior photos, etc.), a print release should cover all you need to use your photos the way you want.
If you need a photographer for your business or commercial project, you want to look for someone that includes print release and the specific copyright permissions you need based on your usage goals. You can expect additional image permissions and rights (ex: more commercial 'value' per image), including copyright permissions, to come at a higher up-front cost, knowing you’ll have more flexibility and freedom in how you choose to use your images moving forward. Most photographers build this into their pricing and contracts, so you'll want to search for a photographer with business and commercial experience who offers the appropriate copyright permissions built in to their pricing.
For my clients, all my sessions include a personal digital gallery with all of your final, edited images. You also receive a print release with each digital image. For my small business and brand clients, your session includes commercial usage, giving you more flexibility to use your photos and video for marketing, promotion, and collateral.
My client gallery portals also include the option to easily order professional-quality prints. I have carefully vetted many professional print labs over the years and guarantee the quality of any prints and albums ordered through your gallery. I don't make guarantees when you print your images outside your gallery, but with your included print release, you have my full permission to print your photos anywhere you'd like. I completely understand it might feel more accessible to print your favorite session images at your local drugstore (or any printer of your choice), and I want to honor that. What matters the most to me is that you have access and permission to be able to print and use your images in the ways that feel best for you.
Knowing and understanding the details of print releases, why it matters to you, and how they relate to your session will help you make the best decision for you when it comes to searching for a photographer.
Consider yourself fully prepared.
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