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Home: Video University Forums: Marketing & Business:
Location release for Documentary - Needed?

mossburg145
Novice

Jul 3, 2005, 11:25 PM

Post #1 of 3 (1136 views)
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Location release for Documentary - Needed?	Can't Post

I’m in the process of shooting a documentary on the effect of gas prices on the average person. The question I have is on footage shot from a public area of signage of oil and gasoline companies and stores displaying their name and logos. I have not been able to gain a release, will not return phone calls, since the video puts the Oil/Gas industry in an unfavorable light. Is a release needed since it is shot from public areas, streets ect. and since the video is being used in a “news/documentary setting”. Any information would be helpful, since I’m new to documentaries.

Thanks

Brett

mike harvey
User

Jul 4, 2005, 12:19 AM

Post #2 of 3 (1131 views)
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Re: [mossburg145] Location release for Documentary - Needed? [In reply to]	Can't Post

I'm not a lawyer... but I do work for a news station, and we shoot that kind of stuff all the time. To the best of my knowledge, if the sign/building/advertisment can be seen from a public street, it's fair game. BUT, I'm not a shooter, just a floor director-- I never go out in the field and so I don't know if that's 100% correct.

~~~~~~~~~
Veritas Vincit

videobear
Veteran

Jul 5, 2005, 9:01 AM

Post #3 of 3 (1096 views)
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Re: [mike harvey] Location release for Documentary - Needed? [In reply to]	Can't Post

As I understand it, the rules for news and for-profit projects are different. For the latter, you may need to secure releases for trademarks and recognizable faces/landmarks. Consult a media law attorney.

Regards,
Doug Graham
Panda Productions