Photographing teenagers

[julianmykel]

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i'm about to start on a project regarding teenage culture & i'm not sure if they would need permission from their parents to take part. do they need to sign a release ? as you can see i'm not experienced as i'm just starting out. any help or knowledge would be greatly appreciated. i use a leica v lux 1 & very happy with it. mykel.

[Walt Calahan]

What is the intent of the project?

 

Depending on intent and how involved you are in their life, you could be opening up a can of worms.

[Guest joewehry]

If you are posting the question, then you already have concerns.

 

Cover yourself and have them sign a release and, if under legal age for your state, have the parents sign also.

 

A side-benefit is that treating the teens like an adult with respect to the project being above board, will let them take you more seriously and possibly they'll open up to you more for even better photos. And talking to their parents may give you additional themes for your project.

[Rona!d]

You better discuss legal issues with your lawyer first, then you ask for detailed written permisions of three sides:

 

1. responsible authorities
   
2. parents
   
3. teenagers
   

 

In some areas it´s also good to ask the religious authorities. In case all agree we can wish you good luck.

[earleygallery]

There are too many issues which need to be known/considered for any worthwhile advice to be offered. You may or may not need to take some of the steps mentioned depending on the nature of your project, what it will be used for, where you will be working and any local regs which might apply. Model releases are generally required if you intend to use images for commercial purposes.