Do You Need Model Releases for AI Virtual Models?

Quick answer: if your AI model is based on a real person's photo, get their written permission (a release) that mentions AI use. If the face is fully invented, there is no person to release, but keep a record of how you made it.

Three situations

1. Real model, AI outfits or locations. You need a release that says the images may be edited or generated with AI.
2. Real person as a "look-alike" reference. Treat this like case 1. Never use a celebrity or stranger's face.
3. Fully invented face. No release, but write down the tool and prompts, and check the face doesn't accidentally match someone famous.

What to write in the release

Name, date, which images or videos, that AI may change clothing, background and pose, where the images will be used, and for how long.

This is general information, not legal advice. For contracts, ask a lawyer in your country.

Read more: Selling AI work: copyright, rights and pricing and AI virtual models.

Questions people ask

Do I need a release for an AI-generated model? Only when the face comes from a real person's photo. Invented faces have no one to sign. Can I use a celebrity's face as reference? No. That can break image rights and advertising rules. Should I tell customers the model is AI? Being open builds trust, and some platforms and countries require a label.