CHILDREN & MODEL RELEASE FORMS

Guidelines on taking and displaying photos of children
There is a potential for abuse of any image placed on the internet. This could be by cutting & pasting images, editing images or changing the context within which the images are viewed. Changing images digitally in this way is often called ‘morphing’.

Caution and vigilance is the most effective method of prevention.

Any use of children in images on the net should be suitably contextualised. That is, they should be appropriate for the activity being portrayed. Additionally, care should be taken when using images of children in the way they are dressed and the activity they are taking part in.

Images should also be considered with regard to the child’s body position during the activity, this is particularly relevant in gymnastic, dance and sporting activities, where the body may be in unusual positions.

Exercise great caution as to where you choose to post such images and which online services you use; such as free-to-view photo albums, where anyone can see the photos you have displayed.

The following steps can also be considered to reduce the potential for misuse:

• Avoid using children's full names in photograph captions. You could consider the use of 1st names, but avoid full names if an image is being shown.
• Avoid using any names if it is possible from the image to ascertain a specific location, i.e. where a School name is visible in the photo or a well known landmark is in view.
• The dress of a child should be considered when using the photo. If it is a posed shot, i.e. being presented with a medal or a team photograph, try to ensure that the child is fully clothed, e.g. in a track-suit or similar. If it is an action shot, taken during the activity, try to use profile imagery or avoid, if possible, full length shots. Alternatively, use digital software to blur the child’s facial features
• Always use a parental consent form to ensure that the parent or guardian is aware that a child’s image is being used. Try to avoid reliance on blanket acceptance procedures as part of consenting to take part in an event.
• Ensure you have obtained the child's permission to use their image. This ensures that they are aware of the way their image is being used to represent the sport. Use of a suitable permission form would address this.
• Be aware of the Data Protection Act and the use and storage of materials with people names and images included on them. Specific permissions must be sought for this from the persons and where applicable their parents/guardians.

http://www.ephotozine.com/article/photographs-of-children---where-do-you-stand--43

A copy of the model release form which i used for each child that attended the party.