There are many legal forms that are required when you film a video. Understanding what forms are required can help you prevent significant legal issues from developing. Additionally, these forms will reaffirm that you have all of the necessary rights to your video. If you are ever unsure about the legality surrounding your video and its applicable release forms, you should consult with a lawyer. Every video is going to film some kind of asset and, if these assets don’t necessarily belong to you, you will need to obtain the appropriate release forms.
Talent
Any time an individual is recognizable in the video, you will need to obtain a talent release form in order to legally display their likeness. If the individual is a minor, you will need to obtain a talent release form from a parent or legal guardian.
Location
Locations that you don’t own or control in some way will require either a release form or a permit. In general, private property will require a location release form from the owner of the property. Public property does not usually require a location release form. However, many of these properties will require permits to film. You can obtain these permits, or find out if you need a permit, by calling the owner of the property, whether it is the city, the county, or the state. If you are unsure who owns the property, you can likely call any of these offices to find out who owns the property.
Stock Footage
Stock footage may or may not require you to give them credit, though they don’t usually require release forms. It is considered courteous to give them credit, whether it is required or not. It is common for free stock footage to require you to attribute credit. Additionally, you will need to ensure that the stock footage is “model-released” if there are people in the footage. Ensure that you understand the applicable licensing requirements before using the footage.
These are just a few tips for obtaining the appropriate release forms for your video. Keep in mind that we are not lawyers and this is not legal advice or counsel. If you are ever unsure of the laws that apply to your video, seek guidance from a lawyer. To get more tips on filming a great video, contact us at Robin Hood Studios today!
