The best advice about model releases is that if you think there’s any chance you might need one for a shot or creative work, then it’s definitely best to get one. That said, let’s have a look at some of the high level guidelines for releases:

• If there are people in your shots and there’s no way they can reasonably be identified, then you generally do not need a release.
• If the image or work is to be used exclusively for the purpose of news reporting then you generally do not need a release.
• If the image or work is to be sold or used to promote a commercial product then you should definitely obtain a release from every individual who is identifiable.

This is by no means a complete list of guidelines, but should help you understand some of the cases where you need a release.

You can download a sample of a model release at dphotojournal.com. Please note that requirements for releases can vary in different regions or countries, so it’s definitely worth looking up the requirements of your particular locale.