Permission for Reel

[safarijoe]

Hi all! I recently worked on a music video, working as DP, camera man and grip. The producer/director took the tapes and sent them off for editing, however I recorded some of the project on my trusty Firestore. No contract, work for hire agreement or release was signed (by me) even though I asked about them. The producer/director did have the talent and extras sign releases. My question is twofold. First, can I use the footage on my website as part of my samples and second who owns the footage? Thanks for your imput!

 

[grinner]

you can if you ask him and he's cool with it. Dont pass up the opportunity to compliment him and secure more work later on.
the client of the production owns that footage.

 

[Noiz2]

I would agree. I would ask about putting it on your web site, though as a "reel" your probably OK.

As to ownership. It is arguable that you own the footage (if you do search you will find some VERY long threads on this). I have a article on the FAQ on my site from a lawyer that supports that position. However YOU don't have releases from the talent. Now in theory you could contact the talent and get independent releases and go for it, but a move like that could also REALLY piss off the producer which is usually not a good career move. So I would ask and not mention the legally you probably own his footage.