When creating content that features models with tattoos, you need to consider several legal documentation requirements. In order for this content to be acceptable for commercial use, you’ll need to provide both a model release for the tattooed individual and a property release from the artist who created the tattoo design (i.e., the copyright owner).
Property Release
The artist who originally created the tattoo design itself must sign the property release, not the person applying the tattoo or the tattoo recipient. This certifies that you have the right to commercially license this content that contains another individual’s artwork (the tattoo design). Though not required, we recommend providing a visual reference image of the original tattoo artwork when submitting a property release.
Model Release
A model release is also required for any model with a visible tattoo, regardless of whether or not facial features are visible. This is necessary because tattoos are unique and, as such, make the model identifiable even if their face is not visible.
Image Examples
564728506 by Versta
The tattoo in this photo requires a property release signed by the original tattoo designer. A model release is also required.
605401151 by gpointstudio
The multiple tattoos visible in the photo all require tattoo property releases signed by the original tattoo designers. Please note that model releases are also required for both tattooed models, even though no facial features are visible.
346605995 by Versta
The multiple tattoos visible in the photo all require tattoo property releases signed by the original tattoo designers. Please note that model releases are also required for both tattooed models, even though no facial features are visible.
We recommend:
Learn more on how to submit commercial content that contains copyrighted works here.
Download property release forms from here.
Fill out a property release according to our property release requirements for each visible tattoo in each image or clip you are submitting.
After uploading your content, attach any releases using the Releases section of the Edit window. Ensure each release is attached to the appropriate image or video clip.
Tip: When uploading new releases, be sure to correctly designate the release type. i.e., a property release must be designated as a property release, not a model release, and vice versa.
Property releases must be signed by the tattoo designer (the artist who originally drew the tattoo design itself, not the person applying the tattoo or the tattooed individual).
If multiple tattoos were designed by multiple artists, you must submit a release for each visible tattoo and from each artwork creator.
If submitting content with tattoos for editorial use, releases are not necessary. However, the subject matter must be appropriate as an editorial image or video (e.g. an isolated shot of a tattoo with no other context is not acceptable because it is not appropriate as an editorial subject).
Separate model releases are required for each tattooed person in an image or video, regardless of whether facial features are shown.
You can learn more about our general legal documentation requirements here.