It is becoming more and more common that companies want to leverage the large social media followings of individuals (including photographers and models) to promote their brand, service and/or product. However there are legalities surrounding this that you as a freelance talent need to be aware of.
According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC); if you are being paid to endorse or promoting brands through your social media channels, you need to be transparent about it.
Many bloggers have already been aware of the “truth-in-advertising” rule to always note if you are being paid or compensated in anyway to promote a company. However the government organization may now be looking into your Twitter, Instagram and Facebook feeds as well.
Thus it is always safer to fully disclose the nature of your relationship when it comes to endorsements. If you, as a model, were to post images of your favorite clothing line – viewers may assume that you were paid to make the post about them.
Paid endorsements can be a lucrative business for many talents. It is just important to be honest and transparent if it was a compensated arrangement.
James Patrick
IG @jpatrickphoto
jamespatrick.com
