Yes, it is important to use model releases in certain situations where you plan to use or publish someone else's image or likeness.

A model release is a legal document signed by a person (the model) granting permission to use their image or likeness for commercial or promotional purposes. It protects the photographer or the publisher from any legal claims by the model, who may object to the way their image is being used.

Model releases are particularly important in cases where the images will be used for commercial purposes, such as in advertising or marketing campaigns. They may also be necessary when the images will be used in a way that implies endorsement or sponsorship by the model, or when the images could be considered defamatory or damaging to the model's reputation.

In short, using model releases is a way to ensure that you have the necessary legal permissions to use someone else's image or likeness in a way that is both ethical and legally compliant.