Website about a celebrity, how to play it safe?

12 years ago

A few thoughts...

1) Personally I don't think it's worth the risk. Even if you only write positively, a celeb's name/reputation is one of their most important assets

2) I don't know if you'd make much money with Adsense... I think you'd be MUCH better off promoting diet/fitness programs as an affiliate

Thanks
1 reply

Signature

*Need help marketing your business?*

----Click Here to Join Me and Learn What Really Works!----

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5855640].message }}

maline

12 years ago

Originally Posted by Justin Stowe

A few thoughts...

1) Personally I don't think it's worth the risk. Even if you only write positively, a celeb's name/reputation is one of their most important assets

2) I don't know if you'd make much money with Adsense... I think you'd be MUCH better off promoting diet/fitness programs as an affiliate

Thanks for your reply, But I guess for example britneyfans.com will be fine?

Anyone has experience or ideas about point 3 and 4?

Thanks
1 reply

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5855741].message }}

Cali16 12 years ago

I agree with Justin.

Otherwise, I suggest you consult with an attorney who's very familiar with Internet law.
- Thanks
Signature
If you don't face your fears, the only thing you'll ever see is what's in your comfort zone. ~Anne McClain, astronaut
{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5855802].message }}

maline

12 years ago

Originally Posted by Cali16

I agree with Justin.

Otherwise, I suggest you consult with an attorney who's very familiar with Internet law.

On what do you agree?

Because for example to register britneyworld.com would certainly not be against law. Right?

Im pretty sure about that, Im more curious about, what can I do with photos or articles about the celebrity.

Would it be safe for example if I host them on a third party, site, I heard some other site didnt got in trouble because the pictures where not hosted on the website itself.

Anyone else some other thoughts on this subject?

Thanks

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5855837].message }}

EllesBelles

12 years ago

You can register a site about the celebrity, but if the celebrity wanted to take action and take the domain I should think, if the site was all about them, that they could.

You could use photographs that were either royalty free (extremely unlikely, photographers make big money from photographs of celebrities) or if you take them yourself. Otherwise, you'd need to pay the copyright owner to use them.

As for using the celebrities full name - people do write about celebrities, yes. You just need to be sure that your information is not considered slander, or incorrect, and be aware that the celebrity probably could have your site shut down. And also that negative press stories will always gain more news then 'safe' ones like 'Britney went to the shops'.

All in all, I'd consult a lawyer or leave this well alone. There is a lot of hurdles in place, and you could have your Google account closed if you use Adsense incorrectly, and a lawsuit if you break laws. Just my two pence, though.

[ 1 ] Thanks
1 reply

Signature

Social Media Strategist. Digital Storyteller.

LinkedIn
Social Media Consultant

If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything.

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5855883].message }}

maline

12 years ago

Originally Posted by EllesBelles

You can register a site about the celebrity, but if the celebrity wanted to take action and take the domain I should think, if the site was all about them, that they could.

You could use photographs that were either royalty free (extremely unlikely, photographers make big money from photographs of celebrities) or if you take them yourself. Otherwise, you'd need to pay the copyright owner to use them.

As for using the celebrities full name - people do write about celebrities, yes. You just need to be sure that your information is not considered slander, or incorrect, and be aware that the celebrity probably could have your site shut down. And also that negative press stories will always gain more news then 'safe' ones like 'Britney went to the shops'.

All in all, I'd consult a lawyer or leave this well alone. There is a lot of hurdles in place, and you could have your Google account closed if you use Adsense incorrectly, and a lawsuit if you break laws. Just my two pence, though.

Thanks for your reply!, but I really wonder about your first point. Im not a lawyer but I dont that would make sense. On what ground could anyone shut down a website because its about someone else? When not using their "full name or brand name" in the domain of course.

About slanter, I already decided to only have a website with straight facts. So that would not be an issue.

And the copyright of photos most of the times rely with the photographer. And for example stock photos from britney spears can be bought legally from stock photo websites.

Thanks

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5855998].message }}

mosthost

12 years ago

Celebrities are very touchy, or rather their publicists are.

Almost all photographs of celebrities are protected by copyright laws. Even arguing 'fair use' is a big stretch, especially if you make money from the site.

I honestly suggest you get back to the drawing board.

Thanks

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5855945].message }}

Onora Oz

12 years ago

I'm not a lawyer nor an AdSense publisher but I have years of experience in this kind of publishing (online and even offline publications on celebs, including fan sites). So, I think I can give you a few ideas/answers:

1. Buy something keyword rich. What do fans in general search for?
Sometimes I buy exact name domains too, then let the upcoming star's management representative know about it. I know many marketers are against it, but it's all up to me, the star and their representitive how to work on it. Me and these people, we can develop a different approach that can benefit all of us. Communication is the key.
BUT don't try it if you don't want to risk anything (or don't want to work HARD.)

2. It's NOT important HOW/WHERE you publish/host photos. Important thing is WHAT you publish/host. "Celebrity photos" have different rules because there are many different people/companies involved in this (celebs themselves, photographers, agencies, managing representatives, record label... and even venue owners -if it's a gig photo- or bar owners -if it's some news about how the celeb got owned naked in that bar- etc.)
Consult with a lawyer.
Plus, here's what I use: WENN Photo Library - Register

3.Yes, allowed if used for PROMOTIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.

4.As a blogger/website owner, you are a publisher. Noone can force you to write "positive only". That's against the nature of any kind of publishing. If it's not a "sponsored" article that is, then different rules may apply. Just don't lie, don't throw dirt at the celeb, etc. You get the idea.
One thing to remember: It doesn't matter what you write, people can sue you even if you're talking the whole truth. They probably won't win, but they can do it just because they can do it. (Am I wrong?)

Why would you write "negative" things if you wanna cater to "fans"?

In short, celebs are a risky business. I'd recommend you to stay away if you just want some "easy AdSense cash"

[ 2 ] Thanks
3 replies

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5856193].message }}

EllesBelles

12 years ago

Originally Posted by Onora Oz

I'm not a lawyer nor an AdSense publisher but I have years of experience in this kind of publishing (online and even offline publications on celebs, including fan sites). So, I think I can give you a few ideas/answers:

1. Buy something keyword rich. What do fans in general search for?
Sometimes I buy exact name domains too, then let the upcoming star's management representative know about it. I know many marketers are against it, but it's all up to me, the star and their representitive how to work on it. Me and these people, we can develop a different approach that can benefit all of us. Communication is the key.
BUT don't try it if you don't want to risk anything (or don't want to work HARD.)

2. It's NOT important HOW/WHERE you publish/host photos. Important thing is WHAT you publish/host. "Celebrity photos" have different rules because there are many different people/companies involved in this (celebs themselves, photographers, agencies, managing representatives, record label... and even venue owners -if it's a gig photo- or bar owners -if it's some news about how the celeb got owned naked in that bar- etc.)
Consult with a lawyer.
Plus, here's what I use: WENN Photo Library - Register

3.Yes, allowed if used for PROMOTIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.

4.As a blogger/website owner, you are a publisher. Noone can force you to write "positive only". That's against the nature of any kind of publishing. If it's not a "sponsored" article that is, then different rules may apply. Just don't lie, don't throw dirt at the celeb, etc. You get the idea.
One thing to remember: It doesn't matter what you write, people can sue you even if you're talking the whole truth. They probably won't win, but they can do it just because they can do it. (Am I wrong?)

Why would you write "negative" things if you wanna cater to "fans"?

In short, celebs are a risky business. I'd recommend you to stay away if you just want some "easy AdSense cash"

Just to clarify - I was simply saying that you could get into trouble if you find a story on a website and publish it, and it turns out to be false, or over exaggerated. I don't know how likely that is, but its my understanding that legally, it would be possible.

As for negative stories - they tend to get more pageviews. Britney shaving her head or beating up a car with an umbrella will have had thousands more views then her shopping or going out with her children or even performing at a gig.

The OP seems to have thought about this anyway. Just make sure you've got plenty of stock photos so you aren't always using the same ones, and good luck, if you've decided to do this.

Thanks

Signature

Social Media Strategist. Digital Storyteller.

LinkedIn
Social Media Consultant

If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything.

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5856264].message }}

maline 12 years ago

Thanks for your great reply!

Maybe I need to point out that Im doing it in a local market. So I wont be as high on the radar. Because in google.com you would not find the websites.

I have few more questions, maybe you can answer them.

1. Like I said I want to play it safe, so I wont do EMD. But would for example britneyworld.com be safe? Or should I be even more safe and do a subdomain like britneyspears.mywebsite.com. I do have a PR5 website where I can build subdomains on, I dont know is SEO wise that will be good or to better buy something like britneyworld.com?

2. Most celebs are local celebs, so I need to purchase them trough local press websites I guess.

3. for the record, this wont be like huge fan website, but small niche websites with information. So their is no reason to risk any information which is negative. Im a lot safer then?

I just need to know how I will be almost 100% safe, of course your not always 100% safe but. Even if that will be a subdomain without picturess.
- Thanks
{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5856339].message }}

Mike Ogbin

12 years ago

Originally Posted by Onora Oz

I'm not a lawyer nor an AdSense publisher but I have years of experience in this kind of publishing (online and even offline publications on celebs, including fan sites). So, I think I can give you a few ideas/answers:

1. Buy something keyword rich. What do fans in general search for?
Sometimes I buy exact name domains too, then let the upcoming star's management representative know about it. I know many marketers are against it, but it's all up to me, the star and their representitive how to work on it. Me and these people, we can develop a different approach that can benefit all of us. Communication is the key.
BUT don't try it if you don't want to risk anything (or don't want to work HARD.)

2. It's NOT important HOW/WHERE you publish/host photos. Important thing is WHAT you publish/host. "Celebrity photos" have different rules because there are many different people/companies involved in this (celebs themselves, photographers, agencies, managing representatives, record label... and even venue owners -if it's a gig photo- or bar owners -if it's some news about how the celeb got owned naked in that bar- etc.)
Consult with a lawyer.
Plus, here's what I use: WENN Photo Library - Register

3.Yes, allowed if used for PROMOTIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.

4.As a blogger/website owner, you are a publisher. Noone can force you to write "positive only". That's against the nature of any kind of publishing. If it's not a "sponsored" article that is, then different rules may apply. Just don't lie, don't throw dirt at the celeb, etc. You get the idea.
One thing to remember: It doesn't matter what you write, people can sue you even if you're talking the whole truth. They probably won't win, but they can do it just because they can do it. (Am I wrong?)

Why would you write "negative" things if you wanna cater to "fans"?

In short, celebs are a risky business. I'd recommend you to stay away if you just want some "easy AdSense cash"

I totally agree with you that the celebrities is totally risky, be careful what you do and what you write. Because you will get in truly bad troubles; the copyright of the photos, if you want to create an article with incorrect facts or try assuming some negative stories that hurt their reputation, these acts and others could not just shut down your website but may sue and charge you with a big fine or may put you in jail.

Please be careful

Thanks

Signature

Speedy Up - Jumping game that change your mood and put smile in your face :)

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5856589].message }}

Onora Oz

12 years ago

Glad I could help. Again I'm not a lawyer. I'm just talking from my experience

I can't answer your question about subdomains, as I don't know its effects on SEO. I'm trying to learn the topic tho. You may want to search for it in SEO forums (great info on AdSense too).

Alternatively, if you won't devote a domain to one name (that celeb), you can use a structure like this:
http://www.yourdomain.com/categoryna...like-this.html
http://www.yourdomain.com/BritneySpe...rs-lyrics.html (generic) or /BritneySpears/britney-spears-femme-fatale.html (trending song)
ONLY IF your domain is related to Britney in some way (e.g. music blog).

I have never had issues regarding domain names. I usually go for "celeb's name" + "some generic words" (e.g. news or info like britneynews.com or britneyinfo.com; or lyrics, tour, songs). You can't find those domains available for big names maybe, but you said your celeb is an upcoming one. That's great.

I have never had issues regarding my content. Again, I don't publish anything that could get me in trouble. But that's because of my sites' nature, by the way. I cater to fans, and they tend to buy from you if they like what you said about their idol. I don't cater to gossip seekers because it doesn't worth the risk. (I'm not a big dog in that market, like perezhilton.com). If I'd build a gossip site, it would be about all celebs not a particular one.

And... yep, check with local sources like stock agencies, news outlets, record label.

Actually, there are many ways of doing things. I don't think basics change depending on it's about a local or an international star

Thanks
1 reply

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5856662].message }}

maline

12 years ago

Originally Posted by Onora Oz

Glad I could help. Again I'm not a lawyer. I'm just talking from my experience

I can't answer your question about subdomains, as I don't know its effects on SEO. I'm trying to learn the topic tho. You may want to search for it in SEO forums (great info on AdSense too).

Alternatively, if you won't devote a domain to one name (that celeb), you can use a structure like this:
http://www.yourdomain.com/categoryna...like-this.html
http://www.yourdomain.com/BritneySpe...rs-lyrics.html (generic) or /BritneySpears/britney-spears-femme-fatale.html (trending song)
ONLY IF your domain is related to Britney in some way (e.g. music blog).

I have never had issues regarding domain names. I usually go for "celeb's name" + "some generic words" (e.g. news or info like britneynews.com or britneyinfo.com; or lyrics, tour, songs). You can't find those domains available for big names maybe, but you said your celeb is an upcoming one. That's great.

I have never had issues regarding my content. Again, I don't publish anything that could get me in trouble. But that's because of my sites' nature, by the way. I cater to fans, and they tend to buy from you if they like what you said about their idol. I don't cater to gossip seekers because it doesn't worth the risk. (I'm not a big dog in that market, like perezhilton.com). If I'd build a gossip site, it would be about all celebs not a particular one.

And... yep, check with local sources like stock agencies, news outlets, record label.

Actually, there are many ways of doing things. I don't think basics change depending on it's about a local or an international star

Thanks again for your reply. I prefer for example britneynews.com, I read something papers about domains and what I can read from it. Its fine to have such domain name without getting in trouble. Aslong you dont act like your the person really itself or brand itself. And you state your an unofficial source. And without using the full name I think Im safe.

And it wont be a gossip website, just informational. So I guess that makes it a lot safer.

The website you just stated for photos, you know what the cost are for such photos? I found a website in my local market but they ask 800$ each photo you use yearly. I do think thats some insane amount.

Thanks

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5856765].message }}

Onora Oz

12 years ago

I would pay $800 for a photo only if it's something exclusive to me meaning I'm the only one who's allowed to use it. And it must be some moneymaker image.

Pricing at those sites can be tricky. I can't give you exact numbers. They price each photo based on several things like how you plan to use that image, how old is the photo, who the photographer is, who the celeb is... etc.

Registration is free. Why not register and see yourself?

There are also planned memberships you may want to check. Another site is Stock Photography, Royalty-Free Photos, Video Footage & Music | Getty Images btw.

Thanks

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5856954].message }}

Richard Tunnah

12 years ago

Maline,
This is a grey area. What I mean is that some celebrities will be ok with a site if you aren't profiting, some may be ok even if you are profiting but many will go after you to get the site removed. You are starting from a precarious position in my view.
The only way I'd ever run with such a site is if I got an agreement with the celebrity or their agency in writing to run such a site.

Rich

Thanks
1 reply

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5857032].message }}

maline

12 years ago

Originally Posted by Richard Tunnah

Maline,
This is a grey area. What I mean is that some celebrities will be ok with a site if you aren't profiting, some may be ok even if you are profiting but many will go after you to get the site removed. You are starting from a precarious position in my view.
The only way I'd ever run with such a site is if I got an agreement with the celebrity or their agency in writing to run such a site.

Rich

I think that way, their is no way to ever earn from such site.

I mean if I would contact any management about building a website they would only think $$$. And its pay time only. Besides in my country celebs are really not big business like in the US. So any fee you pay is to much.

After these thread my plan is following.

Register something like britneyworld.com or something. So I dont abuse their name or copyright.
Only use and buy photos with rights to use them
Only write positive

I think but maybe thats personally. If I was a celeb and I just saw a fan website with positive articles and promoting me. I would not matter at all!

The only reason why I would matter if I was a celeb, is if I read stuff I dont like, or see pictures I dont like or if the website behaves like me.

Thanks

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5857215].message }}

Green Moon

12 years ago

Any time you use the personal identity (image, voice, likeness, etc...) of a real person for commercial purposes, you are violating their right of publicity. Earning money from your website, whether from AdSense, afffiliate sales or otherwise, makes the use "for commercial purposes."

You may get lucky. The celebrity may like the extra publicity. The celebrity may like the site. Or the celebrity may not know about the site. However, your luck can run out at any time. Do you want to build a website where its survival is based on the whim of a celebrity?

[ 1 ] Thanks

Signature

Find an Accountant | Tax Help

{{ DiscussionBoard.errors[5880121].message }}

Website about a celebrity, how to play it safe?

Trending Topics

Been a while! Any of you Old Timers here?

How much does the rebranding affect CR ?

Are billboards still effective in driving customers?

Boat and Jet Ski Rentals...... Door Hangers Effective?

A Very Strange Internet Problem