Filming stock footage is a fun experience and can be a gratifying way to express your creativity while earning an income. However, because our license covers so many uses, we must always be mindful of the legal requirements when creating this type of content.
Here are some of the most essential legal guidelines that our filmmakers should consider and follow at all times:
- People
All recognizable people (or anything in the frame that can be used to identify a person) must have a signed model release. The release must be either provided by us or pre-approved by our legal team. - Brands or trademarks
Brands or trademarks cannot be the focus of the shot or be perceived as the focus of the shot. If there's a noticeable logo in the frame and you're worried about it, it probably won't be accepted. - Private property
The rights-holders must approve recognizable private property shown in the footage. This includes public places like museums, hotels, amusement parks, etc. - Artwork
All artwork in the frame is forbidden unless you have a property release signed by the rights holder. - Protected designs/unique objects
Shooting protected designs/unique objects that are someone else's design work is forbidden (unless you provided the relevant permission to include them in your footage for commercial use). - Architecture
Any shots that feature an architectural object as the main focus must be released by the rights-holder of the architecture. For example, if a shot focuses on a famous building in New York City, you need the rights from the architect. If the shot features the skyline of New York City without focusing on any building specifically, then it is generally acceptable. - Private information on people/objects Do not include any private information such as ID number /license plate in your shots.
**Important note: The property owner is not necessarily the owner of the trademarks, or other arts, on the property.
You are required to obtain a separate license from the correct rights-holder, to use those items in commercial footage (we do not provide such a template for that license).
**This is not an exhaustive list of all the relevant legal issues. The information provided does not constitute legal advice. You should consult with an attorney with respect to any specific legal matter you may have.**
Download release templates from here: