First Baptist Lavaca
National Sign Language Choir Celebration

Consent and Release Forms

Use of Photographic and Video/Film
Consent and Release Forms

What are release forms?
Releases give First Baptist Lavaca, permission to use a person’s likeness in photos, videos, CD-ROMs, web sites, remarks gathered from an interview, etc. These forms document that the person or people in a photo, video, recording, or interview, etc. have consented to allowing First Baptist Lavaca to use their image, likeness, remarks, or voice in promotional materials.

Why are releases necessary?
All states have laws protecting the privacy of individuals. These laws say that no one has the right to use another person’s picture or voice for commercial (promotional, advertising, endorsing) purposes without permission. The only exceptions are when the picture or voice contributes legitimately to the prompt reporting of a news story, when people have placed themselves in the "public light" where there is no expectation of privacy (athletic events, public gatherings, concerts, etc.), or when they are indistinguishable in a large crowd. Images used for instructional projects don’t require release forms as long as the photos are not later used for promotion or advertising on behalf of the church.

These privacy laws extend to certain other areas, as well. We need to get permission when photographing someone’s house, business, pets, furnishing or any trademarked or copyrighted items in the picture. These may include logos, products, books, materials, CDs, posters, etc.

Who owns the image?
The photographer or recorder, the organization employing the photographer or recorder owns the photo, negative, computer image, or recording.

What about people under the age of 18?
Individuals under the age of 18 need the signature of a parent or guardian. Parents or guardians need to sign the consent form before the photo of the minor is taken.

Please click here for printable Entry Form.