Free Model Release Form for Minors Template

Legally reviewed by Mark Costello Written by Dena Standley Last updated September 3, 2025

What is an Model Release Form for Minors?

A model release form for minors is a legal document that grants permission to use a child’s photograph, video, or likeness for a specified purpose. The child, ‘model’, releases their rights to that image,  granting permission to the photographer or another person to use it in a specific way. Since a minor cannot legally consent to releases, legal guardians or parents must sign them.

Model release forms enable creators to use content they have produced without infringing on the model’s rights. It determines how and where you may use the model’s likeness.

If you intend to publish or commercially use images featuring children, you must obtain a signed model release form from the child’s legal custodian. It serves as a liability waiver for future claims regarding permitted use. Without the document, you open yourself up to lawsuits and legal battles, even if the model was fairly compensated.

The release form must contain the child’s and their guardian’s names, a description of the image, the intended use, the duration of the release, and the parent’s signature. Decide beforehand whether printing is allowed and if you can use the image on digital marketing platforms. Creators should take model releases for minors seriously, as unpermitted or careless use can have far-reaching effects on the child’s privacy and publicity.

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Article written by

Dena Standley

Senior Writer | Experienced Paralegal | 79 Articles

Dena Standley is an experienced paralegal based in Houston, Texas and has over a decade of experience working as a paralegal with trial lawyers and law firms. She is passionate about making legal processes more accessible and helping people understand and navigate complex legal matters with confidence.