MicrostockGroup

I read the following on the 123 forums.  It's taken from their faq's. Unless I'm missing something they are willing to sell our model releases-

From 123RF FAQ:

Q: Are all your images model and property released?
How do I get a copy of it?
A: Images with relevant releases are clearly indicated.
There will be a charge of $60 for each release information
requested.

That is very worrying especially for those of us that have children in our portfolios. If they don't change this policy then they are about to lose 1000's of photos when people find out.   I hope it is a misunderstanding but I don't know how to read it any other way. I think that it is probably illegal to sell this kind of information

perhaps someone from 123RF will step in here and give the details but i am guessing they have a similar setup to dreamstime (which people were also mis-frightened about a few months ago)

The deal is, that they give the details about the model release... ie the wording in the release so that  the purchaser can see the exact wording of the release HOWEVER, the models contact info (and i am guessing the photographers as well) is NOT included.

perhaps someone from 123RF can confirm this?

because different people use different releases when they upload photos to 123RF, and if a buyer thinks his use MIGHT go over the conditions of the release he might want a copy of the release used to cover his but.

Hello All,

According to our privacy policy and other terms of use, we do not and will not share or give your private information to another party that is not associated with us. That also includes your model releases and the such.

When and if a customer who has downloaded your image requests for a model release, what we do is a VERIFICATION service. We state that there is a model release and if they would like to have some proof of it, we will dig up the model release and BLANK OUT, all private information that could lead someone discovering the identity of the model, for example: the model's name, place of residence, contact numbers, emails etc.

We also take care to BLANK OUT the photographer's contact details as well, so only the barest minimum information is ever given out in such cases.

The frequency of a customer asking for a verification and copy of the model release is VERY RARE indeed. Perhaps only 1 in a year, if we're lucky. So far this year we have not received any yet

Thank you, don't panic There is no need to remove any images or mode releases, but rest assured, we will take care of things for you as your privacy (and your model's/witnesses) are of utmost importance.

Alex.
for 123RF.com

yeah, thanks for the post here alex.

A few months ago (like i mentioned earlier) people got in quite a stew about this very subject about a different site and people were swapping false information and getting scared and panicing etc. etc.. it is nice to have it straight from the horses mouth from the start!

Yeah, never mess around with privacy issues...! Things can turn out real ugly! Thanks for understanding!

Alex
for 123RF.com