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Permission Request from Actors - Video Footage

by toddperk
4 replies
Since video is becoming a big thing lately in the Internet Marketing world, I figured it would be appropriate to ask this question.

I have some video footage that I would like to sell online. Is there a standard form or disclaimer that I can send to the actors in the video to get their written consent on selling their footage?

A videographer (friend of mine), shot the footage...but he doesn't yet have permission from the people and wants to handle this in the most legit way possible, without any legal problems. What are the steps so that we don't get sued?

Thanks in advance!
#actors #footage #permission #request #video
  • Profile picture of the author LB
    You need a model release and probably a schedule that spells out whether or not the people are entitled to royalties etc. and their consent for your commercial use.

    I would guess there are these types of forms available for sale online, but it would probably be best to have an entertainment attorney supply the documents for you as they can address your specific situation...it's cheaper than a lawsuit.
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    • Profile picture of the author Dan C. Rinnert
      I would second LB's suggestion: Have an attorney (one experienced in this field of law) draft a release form tailored to your needs. Another important thing is to know how you plan and intend to use the video and communicate that to your attorney. And, don't forget to ask the attorney for any specific recommendations to cover things you may have overlooked or not thought of.

      The benefit of using an attorney is counting on their expertise to make sure you are adequately covered. Part of that is telling them your intent, but the other part is the attorney anticipating the things you'd never have thought of on your own. That's why using a generic release may not be adequate. You might think that it covers you, but it's not specific to you plus you don't really know that it covers everything legally necessary, especially if the generic release hasn't been updated in a number of years.

      Invest in having it professionally done. It will be well worth it. Plus, once it's done, you will have the release to use for future projects as well. It is a good idea, however, to periodically have an attorney review the releases and other legal forms you use and update them as needed to adapt to changing laws or circumstances.
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  • Profile picture of the author CmdrStidd
    LB is right. Another issue with buying the forms online is that they may not apply to your locale either. Your best bet is to call the local Bar Association and they will give you a free referral to an attorney. Most of the time those referrals include a discount on the first 30 minute consultation.
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  • Profile picture of the author MAKE-MONEY-CLICKBANK
    thanks for asking this.. I was wondering the same thing. I have an anxiety niche profit pulling website and I wanted to crank it out of town with an actor in video marketing, I was wondering what would happen. I guess I will call my attorney's, they will probably send me a $500 bill for asking them a 1 second question. *******s!
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