Property Release Requirements

[S22767049wnwk]

I am trying to find out what counts as "Recognizable" when it comes to property releases. For example, if I am taking pictures within a Provincial Park, do I require a property release even though they allow everyone free access to post? Do I require a property release if I am taking pictures of a mailbox with no number or house in the picture? How do you determine when you do and when you do not require a property release when dealing with public lands or lands that you are allowed to take pictures on?

[Nancy OShea · Accepted solution]

It varies.  Some public parks require professional photographers to get a permit and schedule their photo shoot with park services ahead of time. Privately owned parks have their own rules.  Check their website.  See Known image restrictions

Recognizable people must sign a model release.  See below for more details.

Model/Property Releases:

• https://helpx.adobe.com/stock/contributor/help/model-release.html
• https://helpx.adobe.com/stock/contributor/help/property-release.html

[S22767049wnwk]

Thank you for these links!  I will bookmark the and reference them for each entry. 

[Abambo]

You need a release, when a release is required (for your provincial park), but not when you take a picture of a tree in that park, without reference to that park. Check the requirements on their website. When nothing is written, then you have to get a release.

You need to determine, if the picture shows private (also public private) grounds or only public grounds. In general, when you need to go through a door, you require a release for that location.  When you ask yourself if you as the property owner would recognise the property, then your asset requires a property release.

[S22767049wnwk]

Thank you - this helps a lot!

[Jill_C · Accepted solution]

Have you read all of the Adobe guidelines regarding property releases?
Property release and protection guidelines for Adobe Stock

Even if you're on public property, such as a park, when shooting images, you can't necessarily post images of recognizable buildings without a release. Allowing the public to post images freely (to social media presumably) isn't the same as allowing them to make commercial use of the images. A mailbox with no number or house is not "recognizable". 

[Nancy OShea]

An official USPS mailbox is protected and would need to be submitted for Editorial Use Only.  That could impact sales because it can't be used for commercial purpose.

https://helpx.adobe.com/stock/contributor/help/illustrative-editorial-content.html

A generic mailbox without markings is OK to submit.

[Abambo]

Yes, because of the logo. Logos need to be edited out, as all other identifiable elements.