N ATG E O E D.

O R G /A D O B E

L E G A L I S S U E S TO C O N S I D E R
I N S TO RY T E L L I N G
This is a guide to some of the general legal
principles to consider when you engage in
digital storytelling in the United States. Please
keep in mind that laws may vary from state
to state and situation to situation. If you have
specific questions, you should consult a lawyer.
Remember:
• Get personal releases. Never record or photograph
anyone without their permission. Always get a
signed release from all people in your photographs
or videos. The release should clearly state you have
their permission and can use the recorded material
in your story. Depending on the situation, you might
want to ask for a release from everyone involved so
you can capture photographs and video freely. You
can see an example of a personal release below.
• Cite and credit your work. Include citations and
credits for all data, information, or other materials that
are not your original work.
• It’s your content. The views and opinions expressed
in your story and shared on the course are yours; it is
your work. Be mindful of how, where, and with whom
you share your story. Read and understand the terms
and conditions if you are going to share your content
on any social media platform.
• Avoid sharing information about minors. Do not use
any content that includes information about minors
(meaning persons under the age of 18) which would
make them recognizable, such as an image, voice
recordings, name, etc., without the written permission
of a parent or guardian.

• Get location releases. A location release is used • Avoid sharing personal information. Do not include
when shooting on private property, or shooting a part personal identifiable information such as address and
of private property, even if you are set up on a public phone numbers.
property, or shooting a private event. These releases
will need to be signed by the property owner or a
legal representative of the property.

• Observe copyright and trademark law. Use of

copyrighted videos, photographs, articles, or other
material beyond what is protected as fair use is
prohibited. Do not pass off someone else’s trademark
as your own.

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 N ATG E O E D.O R G /A D O B E

PERSONAL MEDIA
RELEASE FORM

I, ___________________________, give permission to be

photographed, videotaped, and/or audiotaped
by ___________________________________________________
at _________________________________ on ______________.
I understand that this material may be used
for any purpose, including, but not limited to,
use in publications, websites, video and audio
productions, promotional materials, or other media.

Signature and Date

Signature of guardian if under 18

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