ASK & DISCUSS
INDEXWhat are the general usage/copyright for use of websites such as Facebook, Youtube or Skype in a short film?
13 years, 2 months ago - Michael Chandler
What are the general usage/copyright for use of websites such as Facebook, Youtube or Skype in a short film. I'm currently working on my next short and would need to use these as part of it - any advice here would be appreciated!
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13 years, 2 months ago - Vasco de Sousa
It's not just copyright, it's trademark that's going to get you. And in some cases, there's privacy.
It all depends on what kind of film you're making.
The three sites you're speaking of have many differences to consider. With a publically shared youtube video, the creator can opt to keep copyright. I allow my videos to be embedded, but I don't allow them to be used in other films. I might if permission were asked.
With facebook, the users give up more of their rights to facebook. So, perhaps facebook could sell you the right to use another member's content.
The content on skype is protected by stronger privacy restrictions.
The logos are trademarked, which is a whole other animal. Trademark is not covered by fair use, and then there are problems like endorsement. For instance, I can use a lot of stuff from many US government websites without permission, but for trademark reasons I cannot use the NASA logo.
Read the website's terms of service.
Personally, I'd make spoofs of the sites, and alter them. Either that, or shoot around them. Or, I'd ask if I can use them, and see if they give me product placement privileges. I don't need to give any free advertising to silicon valley.
13 years, 2 months ago - Peter Ward
You need to hire a lawyer to advise you on the specific material you want to use-IP law is very ambiguous territory indeed! And be prepared to fend of an expensive legal challenge from mega companies with deep pockets, even if you're in the right. Otherwise get a web designer to create an imitation.