As a photographer, I have worked with professional models, amateurs, and regular people. To ensure smooth sailing, I ask all models to sign a model agreement, especially for TFCd or TFP (trade for CD, trade for photos) sessions, which are free of charge. These types of sessions help models and photographers build their portfolios for attracting business, art galleries, contests, etc.
Model agreements worldwide are straightforward and clear, stating that the photographer has the right to use the photos as they see fit, without further payments or obligations to the model. All countries have copyright laws, and 99% of the world has signed the Bern Convention, which recognizes and regulates the rights of artists globally.
For those interested, here is a link to Romania’s Copyright Law with the latest annotated articles: read article.
As a photographer working in the UK, I would also like to share a link to the government page providing guidance on copyright law: read article.
In simple terms, a photographer owns the rights to their work throughout their life and 25 years after their death, after which the rights pass to their family. If a model (professional or amateur) wishes to stop the use/publishing of photos, they can purchase the rights from the photographer. Instead of resorting to threats or harassment, it is best to have a calm discussion with the photographer and establish a written agreement detailing the amount paid, the series of photos, the date taken, and a statement from the photographer relinquishing the rights to the photos.
I hope this article provides insight into the world of photography, model agreements, and the disputes surrounding rights ownership.
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