In a photo shoot for an annual report, what is the safest action to take regarding consent forms?

Asking all participants to sign consent forms is the safest action to take regarding consent in a photo shoot for an annual report. This practice ensures that you have documented evidence that all individuals involved are aware of and agree to the use of their images. Consent forms protect the rights of both the participants and the organization, offering legal clarity and reducing the risk of potential disputes over image usage later on.

Having written consent allows the organization to confidently use the images without fear of infringing on personal rights, as participants have explicitly granted permission for their likeness to be captured and utilized. This is especially important in professional settings like annual reports, which may be shared publicly.

While obtaining verbal permission can seem easier, it lacks the legal backing that a signed consent form provides, making it a less reliable option. Contacting the legal department can be a wise step for additional guidance, but it does not directly address the need for consent in the immediate moment of the photo shoot. Therefore, the most proactive approach remains to have all participants sign consent forms.