For commercial use of photos featuring identifiable people, what is typically required?

• A. Permission from the subject via a model release form
• B. Public domain status
• C. No consent needed for private individuals
• D. Permission from the city

Answer: (A)

For commercial use of photos that show identifiable people, you need the person's permission. A model release is the signed agreement that gives you the right to use that person’s image in advertising and other commercial contexts, protecting you from claims about privacy or the right of publicity. Public domain status isn’t something you can assume for ordinary portraits, and it doesn’t automatically grant permission for commercial use. Relying on no consent for private individuals isn’t appropriate either, since consent is typically required for commercial exploitation. Permission from the city might cover location access but doesn’t address the person’s rights to their image.