Model Release Form - who signs it?

Question

I'm new to the photography business. I'm shooting a birthday and would like to use some of the photos for my portfolio. There will be around 45 ppl. For legal purposes, what do I do about the model release form? Do I have all 45 ppl sign it? Do I get approval from those that will be in my portfolio after the fact? Or, do I just get one signature from the person who is arranging the party (my contact)?

Answer 1

Each individual person has to sign a release allowing you to use their image. Even if you only plan on certain people being in your portfolio, you might not know who will be visible in the background or periphery, etc. For legal purposes, you'll have to get everyone in attendance to sign.