Restaurant Photography - Model release?

[sambonebs]

I've just been booked by a really nice local restaurant for tomorrow night. They've just heard about an upcoming feature in a "What's On" magazine and have been told to supply photos. It'll only be an hour and I'll probably get free dindins too - always a bonus!

My question is this: the images will include diners as it'll need to look busy, which is why they want them done on a Saturday night.

Will I need to get everyone to sign model releases?

I'm thinking no for 2 reasons:

1: It's private property, and

2: Because the images will be used for what I'd class as editorial, a model release isn't needed as there's no chance any other meaning can be interpreted other than the given one - that they like to eat, or ate on that one occasion in that restaurant.

Any suggestions guys?

 

[madferrit]

Don't quote me.. but i think I read somewhere on here that in the UK we don't specifically need a model release, unless the picture is of a minor.

 

[sambonebs]

Don't quote me.. but i think I read somewhere on here that in the UK we don't specifically need a model release, unless the picture is of a minor.

I'd heard the same thing, it's just more for the diners peace of mind.

 

[susie]

If you don't need a model release it may be worth letting the diners know that the picture(s) may be used in an editorial in case they are there with someone they should not be seeing and don't want their face shown

 

[fletch5]

put a note up on entry telling them, and to let you know if they object, just to cover your tracks

 

[Phil T]

Type up a disclaimer inviting anyone who objects to register their position and hand it out with the menus. Anyone not wanting to be photographed will have to then either eat at home or hide in the toilets.

 

[Gary Bagshawe]

If you don't need a model release it may be worth letting the diners know that the picture(s) may be used in an editorial in case they are there with someone they should not be seeing and don't want their face shown

My thoughts exactly, you can just imagine the scene,
"oh out with your mates were you, well look at this picture"

 

[Wookie]

is it really "editorial" or an advertisement feature?

 

[sambonebs]

is it really "editorial" or an advertisement feature?

Good question! I've been told it'll be editorial but I'd best check. I'm assuming that would affect the need for a release?

 

[Forbiddenbiker]

Another thought; If any of his clients that night are celebrities, then Yes, a model release maybe needed for that person if the image to be used in any commercial direction.