What is the name of your state? Texas.
I am an amatuer photographer and I am looking to photograph models. These could be potrait or swim wear type photographs. Are there anything I must do before I can hire models? Licenses, precautions etc.?
Thank you for your advise.
What are you going to do with the photos? If you are taking pictures FOR people, like head shots for models or whatever, then all you might need is a contract the specifies who owns what (like, do you retain the copyrights, can the purchaser get the photos reproduced elsewhere, that sort of thing), and probably a business license from your local city or county.
If you are planning on taking photographs of others to sell, either to catalogs or on the internet, then you will want a contract like above (explains copyrights, etc.), along with a release signed by the model that allows you to use photos of them, and probably a proof of age (if necessary). If you are taking pornographic photos, there will be more state and federal regulations to consider. But for just swimwear or other fashion photos, then a release is sufficient, along with proof of age (so that you know they are old enough to legally consent to the release).
If you are taking photos for your own personal enjoyment, the aoove releases are probably still a good idea. Google "model release" for more information.
