Published on 05/17/2007

The legal implications of recording video learning clips are often overlooked or left until it's too late. It's important to prepare for these issues in advance with relevant legal paperwork and documentation. This section covers some of the key issues you MUST consider.

Legal/Copyright Issues

You must obtain written permission to use ANY copyrighted content in the video. This includes scripts, products, music, stills, company logos.

You may also need written permission to film in certain locations or public buildings.

Pay special attention to sensitve areas - around courts, hospitals etc.

You must obtain signed release forms for all those who feature in the video.

If participants are under 16 years of age - you must obtain signed release forms from parent/guardians.

Complete a Risk Assesment document taking into consideration all relevant risks.

Here are some examples:

Cables (trip hazard - tape them down).
Lights (temporary blindness leading to tripping, generating ).
Electricity and water.
People distracted by the task of filming.

It is wise to consider ownership of the final video – discern who has the rights to sell or distribute?

Creative Commons provides free tools that let authors, scientists, artists, and educators easily mark their creative work with the freedoms they want it to carry.