Donald Scarinci

Model Release Model Releases for Digitally Manipulated Photographs

October 27, 2014 Donald Scarinci

Given the number of digital editing tools available, a photographer’s final image may be remarkably different from what the camera initially captured. The background may be completely different, words and phrases may be added, or the subject’s features may be distorted. Models should be advised of these possibilities prior to signing a release. As discussed in prior posts, a model release is a contract between the subject and the photographer. The subject grants permission for his or her image to be used for commercial purposes. In exchange, the photographer provides something of value, which can range from monetary payment to…

Exhibitions “Edward Hopper and Photography” at the Whitney Museum

October 13, 2014 Donald Scarinci

What if Edward Hopper had used a camera rather than a paintbrush? A new exhibit at the Whitney Museum of American Art explores this exact question by pairing Hopper’s paintings from the museum’s permanent collection with the work of contemporary photographers. Edward Hopper, an American realist painter, is known for his use of light and shadow to create mood. While his paintings depict everyday American life in the 1920s through 1960s, they are anything but ordinary. Through the use of light, shapes, and angles, he conveys great beauty and deep emotion. “Nighthawks,” one of his most famous paintings, depicts customers…

Model Release Model Releases When Photographing Children

September 29, 2014 Donald Scarinci

Model Releases When Photographing Children Photographing children comes with unique legal concerns that must be taken consideration when securing a model release. As highlighted in previous posts, a model release is a contract between the subject and the photographer. The photographer offers to take a photograph (in the context of a professional model in exchange for remuneration), while the subject offers to grant permission to have the picture taken and authorize its later use. Since minors under the age of 18 do not have the legal capacity to enter into binding agreements, you need to seek permission from…

Camera & Lenses Should Photographers Upgrade to the Nikon D810?

September 15, 2014 Donald Scarinci

Nikon claims that the D810 is the best Digital SLR it has ever released. Many of the early reviews agree. Are the changes in the D810 significant enough to upgrade if you already own the D800 or D800E? The D810 is an incredible camera, with a number of well thought out improvements over previous models. But, for most amateur photographers, the differences between the models do not justify the spread of about $1500 it might cost to sell the D800 and buy the D810. Depending on your personal preferences or photography demands, there are a few features that may convince…

Model Release The Essential Terms of a Model Release

September 2, 2014 Donald Scarinci

In its most basic terms, a model release is a contract between the subject and the photographer. The subject grants permission for his or her image to be used for commercial purposes. In exchange, the photographer provides something of value. Every legal contract must contain three essential elements: offer, acceptance and consideration. In many cases, the photographer offers to take a photograph (in the context of a professional model in exchange for remuneration), while the subject offers to grant permission to have the picture taken and authorize its later use. Signing and accepting the release indicates the parties’ acceptance of…

Books 1X.com’s “Passion” Photo Book 2013

August 18, 2014 Donald Scarinci

Every year, the website www.1X.com releases a yearbook of its best photos. This year 1X.com’s “Passion”, does not disappoint. 1x is one of the most exclusive photography communities on the Internet. Unlike Flickr or Instagram, it caters strictly to professional or semi-professional photographers. A team of curators selects the photos displayed in the site’s online galleries, as you would find in any New York gallery. At the end of each year, they select the best photos for inclusion in their yearbook. It contains 220 full size photographs, which feature stochastic printing and superior quality paper. The limited edition publication has…

Photographer Photography Tips for Your Sailing Vacation

August 6, 2014 Donald Scarinci

Photography Tips for Your Sailing Vacation Photography on an ever-moving sailboat presents many challenges. After studying the pictures from my most recent sailing adventure in Corsica and Sardinia, there are several tips I can offer. I shot with the new Nikkor 18-300 f./3.50-5.6 VR2 lens on my Nikon D7000. I brought along one SB-900 flash and my Gitzo 0157 tripod for those times we would dock at a marina. The tripod is obviously quite useless on a sailboat even when anchored in a calm harbor. While I could count the number of times on land that I have used…

Model Release When Do Photographers Need a Model Release?

August 4, 2014 Donald Scarinci

When Do Photographers Need a Model Release? A model release is a legal agreement between a photographer and a subject. It is designed to release the photographer from certain types of liability that may arise from use of the image, such as rights of publicity, invasion of privacy, and defamation claims. Many photographers mistakenly believe that you only need a release when photographing a professional model. However, to ensure the best legal protection, you should obtain a release any time you take a picture where a person could be recognized. Examples include a couple strolling the beach, a performer…

Lenses ProOptic 500mm f/6.3…..A Good (and Minimal) Investment

July 28, 2014 Donald Scarinci

The ProOptic 500mm f/6.3 is a good quality 500 mirror lens alternative for photographers who do not regularly shoot at this range. At only $160, its drawbacks are not that significant. In the category of mirror lenses, this one is undoubtedly the best. The ProOptic only weighs 1.5 pounds and reaches less than 4.5 inches long when racked out. It balances nicely on most cameras and is easy to shoot handheld. It is at its best with wildlife and street photography provided you are good with manual focus. The most obvious drawback to the ProOptic is that it does not…

Exhibitions Summer Guide to Photography Galleries in Chelsea

July 15, 2014 Donald Scarinci

The summer is finally here and there are some excellent exhibits in New York City where you are sure to find some inspiring fine art photography. Here are a few thought-provoking photography galleries in Chelsea that are worth seeing: Andrea Meislin Gallery presents Barry Frydlender’s fourth solo exhibition – Yaffo-Tel Aviv – will be at the gallery May 8 through June 21, 2014 and will be accompanied by a color printed catalogue with Essays by Leon Wieseltier, Ileana Selejan and Sharon Rotbard. The exhibition will include eight large-scale photographs created between 1998 and 2014, and presenting the view reflected from…