A woman in a flowing white gown stands by a bright window in a dark room, gracefully spreading her sheer veil wide.
Signing Party

Model Release Agreement

Participation & Licensing Terms

This Model Release Agreement ("Agreement") is made between the undersigned model ("THE MODEL") and Rook Barber Photography ("THE PHOTOGRAPHER"). By signing this Agreement, THE MODEL grants THE PHOTOGRAPHER the rights and permissions outlined below.

I

Purpose of the Agreement

THE MODEL agrees to participate in a photoshoot conducted by THE PHOTOGRAPHER and grants permission for the creation, editing, and lawful use of resulting images as detailed in this Agreement. THE MODEL understands that all usage rights granted to them are limited to personal, non-commercial use unless otherwise stated in writing. Participation is voluntary, and no monetary compensation will be provided unless separately agreed upon in writing. Once executed, this release is irrevocable with respect to uses permitted herein.

II

Copyright & Usage Rights

1Ownership & Authorship

All photographic works created during the session are the sole and exclusive property of THE PHOTOGRAPHER, operating as Rook Barber Photography. THE PHOTOGRAPHER retains full copyright, authorship, and moral rights over every image, including all underlying creative components such as lighting design, composition, and editing.

2License Granted to THE MODEL

Upon delivery, THE MODEL receives a non-exclusive, perpetual license for personal, non-commercial use only. This includes printing, portfolio display, and social media sharing where practical credit is given to THE PHOTOGRAPHER. This license does not extend to any commercial, promotional, or revenue-generating activity without separate written consent.

3Restrictions on Use

THE MODEL may not sell, license, alter, filter, or reproduce any images for advertising, marketing, or resale. Any unauthorized commercial use constitutes a material breach of this AGREEMENT and may result in legal action or retroactive licensing fees at the prevailing commercial rate.

4Photographer's Usage Rights

THE PHOTOGRAPHER retains the unrestricted right to license, sell, exhibit, or otherwise use the images for editorial, commercial, promotional, or resale purposes, including to third-party brands, agencies, or publications. Such use shall not misrepresent or defame THE MODEL's likeness and shall exclude adult, political, or misleading contexts unless written consent is obtained.

5Credit & Attribution

When THE MODEL shares images on social media or professional platforms, credit shall be visibly given (e.g., "Photo by Rook Barber" or tag @rookbarber) where customary or technically possible.

6Editing & Moral Rights

All creative and moral rights remain vested in THE PHOTOGRAPHER. THE MODEL may not materially alter the delivered images — including recoloring, manipulation that changes the subject or setting, or any edit that misrepresents the creative intent — without THE PHOTOGRAPHER's written consent. Reasonable color and tone adjustments, cropping, and standard platform filters are permitted for personal sharing, provided they do not materially misrepresent the work. Unauthorized creation of derivative works remains strictly prohibited.

7Royalties & Compensation

THE MODEL acknowledges that THE PHOTOGRAPHER's licensing, resale, or publication of the images may generate revenue. THE MODEL expressly waives any right to future royalties, residuals, or profit-sharing arising from such lawful uses.

8Irrevocability & Deletion Requests

Once executed, this release is irrevocable with respect to uses permitted herein. THE MODEL may request removal of sensitive content or deletion, subject to THE PHOTOGRAPHER's ability to comply (see §VI.4(iii)).

9Assignment of Rights

THE PHOTOGRAPHER's rights hereunder may be assigned, licensed, or sublicensed to successors, clients, or agencies, and shall inure to their benefit.

10Unpaid Sessions & Commercial Licensing

(i)ScopeImages produced during collaborative, trade, or otherwise unpaid sessions remain governed by the non-commercial license described in §II.2.

(ii)Portfolio Carve-OutNon-commercial portfolio display — including THE MODEL's personal or professional portfolio used to secure non-commercial work — is expressly permitted under §II.2 and shall not be treated as commercial use for purposes of this Section.

(iii)Commercial UseAny commercial use of such Images — including talent-agency submissions for paid bookings, brand partnerships, paid promotion, merchandise, or any other revenue-generating activity — requires THE PHOTOGRAPHER's prior written consent and payment of a separately negotiated commercial licensing fee, agreed upon in writing before the use occurs.

(iv)RemediesUnauthorized commercial use shall constitute copyright infringement, and THE PHOTOGRAPHER shall be entitled to recover: the photographer's then-current session fee for an equivalent commercial booking; the applicable commercial licensing fee at the rate then published by THE PHOTOGRAPHER on rookbarber.com (or successor URL) for the type of commercial use, and in no event less than five hundred dollars ($500) per image; and any other remedies available under the Copyright Act (17 U.S.C. §§ 501 et seq.) and applicable law, including statutory damages and attorneys' fees where available.

III

AI, Digital Manipulation & Identity Protection

1AI Use & Consent

THE MODEL's likeness, voice, or biometric data shall not be uploaded to, modified by, or recreated through any artificial intelligence (AI) system, machine-learning dataset, or generative platform without the written consent of both parties. Any AI-assisted or synthetic use of THE MODEL's image, likeness, or identity outside this AGREEMENT is strictly prohibited.

2AI-Assisted Editing by THE PHOTOGRAPHER

THE PHOTOGRAPHER utilizes AI-assisted tools and software as part of the standard editing process to refine lighting, retouching, and color grading. These tools operate solely under THE PHOTOGRAPHER's direct creative supervision. THE MODEL acknowledges and consents to the use of such tools as part of the creative workflow. All resulting works remain original authored images owned fully by Rook Barber Photography, with THE PHOTOGRAPHER maintaining exclusive creative and commercial control.

3Ethical Limitations & Representation

THE PHOTOGRAPHER shall not employ AI or digital compositing in any manner that misrepresents, distorts, or falsifies THE MODEL's likeness, form, or identity. Likewise, THE MODEL's image shall not be altered, recontextualized, or repurposed for defamatory, exploitative, or misleading portrayals without prior written consent.

IV

Image Delivery & Editing

1Delivery Format & Timeline

Edited images will be delivered through a secure online gallery. For paid sessions, delivery typically occurs within six (6) weeks of the session date unless otherwise stated in writing. For collaboration or trade-based sessions, delivery is not bound to any specific timeline and is completed at the discretion of THE PHOTOGRAPHER, based on existing workload and creative prioritization.

2Editing Standards & Artistic Control

Image selections may be made by THE MODEL, THE PHOTOGRAPHER, or members of THE PHOTOGRAPHER's team; however, all final selections and edits are approved and finalized solely by THE PHOTOGRAPHER. Editing may include color correction, lighting adjustments, retouching, compositional refinement, and any stylistic treatments deemed appropriate. THE MODEL acknowledges that artistic interpretation is inherently subjective and agrees that all creative decisions regarding selection, tone, and final presentation rest exclusively with THE PHOTOGRAPHER. All final image selections and edits are made under the sole artistic discretion of THE PHOTOGRAPHER, and the delivered work shall be considered complete and final.

3Additional Edits & Requests

Requests for re-edits or adjustments must be submitted within seven (7) days of gallery delivery. Any additional edits after this period are at THE PHOTOGRAPHER's discretion and may incur an additional fee at the discretion of THE PHOTOGRAPHER.

4RAW Files & Unedited Materials

RAW files, proofs, or unedited images remain the exclusive property of THE PHOTOGRAPHER and will not be provided under any circumstance. Only curated, finalized images are included in the agreed deliverables.

V

Liability & Indemnification

1Limitation of Liability

THE PHOTOGRAPHER is not responsible for missed moments, uncooperative behavior, unforeseen weather, location restrictions, or other factors outside their control that may affect the outcome of the session. THE MODEL acknowledges that creative work inherently involves variables and accepts that not every image or moment can be guaranteed.

2Injury Waiver & Safety

THE MODEL participates in the session at their own risk and releases THE PHOTOGRAPHER and any assisting team members from liability for personal injury, loss, or property damage sustained before, during, or after the session. THE PHOTOGRAPHER will take reasonable measures to ensure a safe and suitable working environment but cannot guarantee the elimination of all risk. If environmental hazards or unforeseen safety concerns arise, the session may be rescheduled or adjusted in good faith without penalty to either party. This release does not waive liability for gross negligence, willful misconduct, or intentional acts, and does not purport to waive any rights of a minor that cannot lawfully be waived on their behalf; if any portion of this release is held unenforceable as to a minor or otherwise, the remainder shall remain in full force and effect.

3Third-Party Misuse

Once images are lawfully delivered, THE PHOTOGRAPHER bears no responsibility for unauthorized reproduction, alteration, or misuse by third parties or online platforms. THE MODEL agrees to notify THE PHOTOGRAPHER immediately if such misuse is discovered so reasonable protective actions can be taken.

4Indemnification

THE MODEL agrees to indemnify and hold harmless THE PHOTOGRAPHER and their team from any and all claims, damages, costs, or expenses—including attorney's fees—arising out of participation in the session, the use or publication of the images, or any breach of this AGREEMENT by THE MODEL. THE MODEL's indemnification obligations under this Section shall not exceed twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000) in the aggregate, except that such cap shall not apply to claims arising from intentional misconduct, fraud, or knowing copyright infringement, which shall remain uncapped.

5Force Majeure & Cancellation Events

Both parties shall be excused from performance obligations under this AGREEMENT for causes beyond reasonable control, including but not limited to illness, emergency, fire, casualty, strike, unsafe environment, natural disaster, or equipment failure. In such cases, THE PHOTOGRAPHER will make reasonable efforts to reschedule the session within a mutually agreeable timeframe. Neither party shall be held liable for delay, cancellation, or loss resulting from these events.

6Dissatisfaction & Re-Shoot Policy

If THE MODEL is dissatisfied with the creative outcome, THE PHOTOGRAPHER may, at their sole discretion, offer a re-shoot as a good-faith gesture under newly agreed terms. This option applies only to aesthetic dissatisfaction and shall not apply to technical failures, which are governed by Section V.3. Any re-shoot offered does not constitute an admission of fault or create an ongoing obligation to perform additional services.

VI

Permissions, Conduct & Confidentiality

1Access & Location Permissions

THE MODEL and THE PHOTOGRAPHER share responsibility for obtaining any required permissions, property releases, or location access necessary for the session. THE MODEL is financially responsible for all associated costs, including but not limited to studio rental fees, location access fees, entry or permit fees, and photography passes, unless otherwise agreed in writing. Failure to obtain or pay such fees does not constitute fault or liability of THE PHOTOGRAPHER. Any delays, restrictions, or denials of access that affect production time will not warrant compensation, refund, or reshoot.

2On-Set Conduct & Exclusivity

Only THE PHOTOGRAPHER and authorized team members may direct, or capture posed scenes, lighting setups, or compositions during the session. THE MODEL agrees that no outside photographers, videographers, or behind-the-scenes personnel may replicate or interfere with the production without written approval from THE PHOTOGRAPHER.

3Professional Standards

Both THE MODEL and THE PHOTOGRAPHER agree to maintain a professional, courteous, and respectful environment throughout the duration of the session. Clear communication, punctuality, and adherence to agreed-upon schedules are expected from both parties. Each party shall act in good faith and uphold mutual respect in all communications and actions before, during, and after the session. Any conduct that disrupts workflow, violates professional standards, or compromises safety may warrant immediate pause or termination of the session at the discretion of either party.

4Ethical Standards, Privacy & Consent

Both THE PHOTOGRAPHER and THE MODEL commit to maintaining an environment of mutual respect, privacy, and dignity at all times. No session or creative material shall be conducted, shared, or displayed in a way that violates either party's personal boundaries or ethical standards.

(i)Privacy ProtectionAll personal information, communications, and session data shared between the parties shall remain confidential. THE PHOTOGRAPHER collects and retains only the data necessary to schedule, deliver, and archive the session, and does not sell or share personal data with third parties except for core operational services such as payment processing and gallery hosting.

(ii)Sensitive ContentAny content deemed sensitive in nature will only be created, displayed, or shared with the written consent of THE MODEL. Such materials will not be used for marketing, publication, or exhibition without express written authorization.

(iii)Deletion & Data RequestsTHE MODEL may request deletion of sensitive content or identifying data at any time. Upon written request, THE PHOTOGRAPHER will make every reasonable effort to remove such materials from active and backup storage systems within thirty (30) days.

(iv)Ethical Use of ImageryTHE PHOTOGRAPHER shall not use any imagery in a context that misrepresents, defames, or exploits THE MODEL. Similarly, THE MODEL shall not use or display imagery in a way that misrepresents the creative intent of THE PHOTOGRAPHER or damages their professional reputation.

5Session Termination & Unsafe Conditions

Either party may immediately pause or end the session if they feel unsafe, disrespected, or subjected to inappropriate, unethical, or hostile behavior. This right may be exercised without prior notice and without penalty. In such cases, only completed work prior to termination will be delivered, and no further compensation or continuation of service shall be required unless mutually agreed upon in writing. Both parties agree to handle any early termination with professionalism and discretion.

6Confidentiality & Non-Disclosure

All unpublished images, behind-the-scenes materials, shoot details, and private communications are considered confidential. THE MODEL agrees not to publicly share, post, or disclose any unreleased work, private locations, or terms of this AGREEMENT without written consent from THE PHOTOGRAPHER. Similarly, THE PHOTOGRAPHER agrees to maintain discretion regarding any sensitive or private information about THE MODEL.

7Public Representation & Reputation

Neither party shall make public statements, social media posts, or online commentary that misrepresents, defames, or damages the reputation, work, or business of the other. This includes statements made indirectly through shared content, captions, or commentary.

8Independent Relationship

This AGREEMENT does not create an employment, partnership, or joint-venture relationship between THE MODEL and THE PHOTOGRAPHER. THE MODEL participates as an independent contractor and is not entitled to wages, royalties, or future compensation beyond what is expressly granted under this AGREEMENT.

VII

Definitions

Agreementrefers to this Model Release Agreement and any written addenda agreed by the parties.
The Photographerrefers to Rook Barber Photography and any assistants or subcontractors working under THE PHOTOGRAPHER's direction.
The Modelrefers to the undersigned individual whose likeness is captured during the session.
Imagesmeans all photographs and derivatives created during the session, in any format or medium.
Sensitive Contentrefers to any imagery or creative work of a private, intimate, or potentially controversial nature that THE MODEL and THE PHOTOGRAPHER mutually agree to treat with restricted use or additional consent requirements; by default, THE PHOTOGRAPHER treats such content as restricted-use out of respect for privacy.
Gallerymeans the secure online photo gallery used to deliver edited images.
AI Systemsmeans any machine learning, training datasets, or generative tools used to process, analyze, or create imagery or likenesses.
Force Majeureincludes events beyond reasonable control (e.g., illness, emergency, fire, casualty, strike, unsafe environment, act of God) that delay or prevent performance.
VIII

Construction

1Severability

If any provision of this AGREEMENT is found invalid or unenforceable, the remainder shall remain in full force and effect. Where possible, such provision shall be interpreted to best reflect the original intent of both parties while remaining lawful and enforceable.

2Amendments

Any modification or amendment to this AGREEMENT must be made in writing and signed by both THE PHOTOGRAPHER and THE MODEL. Verbal agreements, messages, or implied understandings shall not alter or override the terms herein.

3Waiver

The failure of either party to enforce any provision of this AGREEMENT shall not constitute a waiver of that provision or of any future right to enforce it.

4Governing Law, Arbitration & Jury Waiver

(i)Governing LawThis AGREEMENT is governed by and shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the State of South Carolina, without regard to its conflict of law principles.

(ii)Binding ArbitrationAny dispute, claim, or controversy arising out of or relating to this AGREEMENT shall be resolved exclusively by binding individual arbitration under the Federal Arbitration Act (9 U.S.C. § 1 et seq.), administered by the American Arbitration Association under its Commercial Arbitration Rules, seated in Charleston, South Carolina, or held remotely if mutually agreed. The arbitrator's decision shall be final and binding, and judgment on the award may be entered in any court of competent jurisdiction.

(iii)Class WaiverTHE MODEL and THE PHOTOGRAPHER each waive any right to bring or participate in a class, collective, or representative proceeding. All claims must be brought individually.

(iv)Jury WaiverEach party knowingly and voluntarily waives the right to a trial by jury for any dispute not resolved in arbitration.

(v)Opt-OutTHE MODEL may opt out of the arbitration, class waiver, and jury waiver provisions of this Section by providing written notice to Rook@rookbarber.com within thirty (30) days of signing this AGREEMENT. Opting out does not affect any other provision of this AGREEMENT.

(vi)Small Claims CarveoutNothing in this Section prevents either party from bringing an individual claim in a small claims court of competent jurisdiction.

5Entire Agreement

This AGREEMENT constitutes the entire understanding between THE PHOTOGRAPHER and THE MODEL and supersedes all prior agreements, communications, or understandings, whether written or verbal, regarding the subject matter herein.

6Electronic Execution

The parties consent to execute this AGREEMENT electronically under the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (15 U.S.C. § 7001 et seq.) and any applicable state law equivalent (including the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act). Electronic signatures shall have the same force and legal effect as handwritten signatures, and a scanned, photographed, or PDF copy of the executed AGREEMENT shall be deemed an original for all purposes.

IX

Authority to Sign

1Acknowledgment & Consent

By signing below, THE MODEL acknowledges that they have read and understood all terms of this AGREEMENT and voluntarily consent to the creation, use, and lawful licensing of their likeness as described herein.

2Authority & Representation

THE MODEL represents and warrants that they have full right, power, and capacity to enter into this AGREEMENT; that they are not bound by any prior agreement or representation that would conflict with its terms; and, if represented by an agency or manager, that they have obtained authorization from their representative to sign and grant the permissions contained herein.

3Minors & Guardian Consent

If THE MODEL is under eighteen (18) years of age, a parent or legal guardian must review and sign this AGREEMENT on their behalf, granting the permissions and rights herein to the fullest extent permissible by law, except for those rights that cannot lawfully be waived on behalf of a minor. Upon reaching the age of majority, THE MODEL may ratify this AGREEMENT in writing to confirm its continued effect; absent affirmative revocation in writing delivered to THE PHOTOGRAPHER within ninety (90) days of reaching majority, the AGREEMENT shall be deemed ratified in full.

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