if.net

Sample Appearance, Release, and License Agreements

Frequently Asked Questions

Sample Release Forms for Download:                    Click Below to Download:

- Location Release Agreement                                                   PDF

- Personal Release Agreement                                                   PDF

- Materials Release Agreement                                                   PDF

- Music Master Use License Agreement                                       PDF

- Music Synchronization License Agreement                                PDF

NOTE: The sample release and license forms above are provided strictly as examples for reference. It is your responsibility to seek the advice of an attorney regarding the applicability of these forms to you and the completion or modification of the forms.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Do I need releases from the people in my video?

The short answer is "yes." If you're shooting a big crowd, you don't have to have a release for everyone. But as soon as you focus on somebody and they're recognizable on video, you need to get their permission. This will protect you in the long run. You can use the sample release forms above for reference.

Are there any other rights issues that might sneak up on me?

Beware of copyrighted images in the background and of ambient music. When you send Contest Media to if.net, you're saying that everything in your submission is legit and fully cleared.

Why are the releases in my name and not if.net?

The releases are designed only as a guide to assist you in clearing your material. You represent and warrant to if.net that you have cleared and h ave the rights to all material you send to us.

Are the releases "ironclad" and enforceable?

The releases are designed to protect you from claims but they are provided only as a service and without any warrantees of any kind whatsoever. You are advised to consult with an attorney if you have any questions regarding the sample release forms.

What licenses do I need for the music I want to use?

When you create your own music or obtain music from a third party (not affiliated with a label or publisher that owns 100% of their music) then you will need both a master and synchronization license. Sample forms can be found at the top of this page and have a few blanks that need to be filled in: date, name, address, title of song, title of Contest Media, signature, and contact phone number for the person signing. If you are filming someone live then you will only need a synchronization license. In that situation, if the music is theirs and they own 100% of the rights, then you will be clear to use it.

Can I use music recorded in the background of a scene?

You should avoid shooting at venues that play music, including clubs, parties, and sporting events. Even if it is just softly playing, you'll need to take this music out or try to clear it -- for a price. If there are live performances happening, then you will need a synchronization license from each performer. Your best bet is to just avoid shooting at locations that have music playing.

Can I use music I create on my own in a computer program?

There are lots of software programs that let you create your own music. Many of these are okay for broadcast; however, some are not. Every program has a license section; you need the license to say that the music you create in the program is okay for broadcast and web use.

Can I use royalty-free music?

Just because music is royalty-free doesn't necessarily mean that it is okay to use for if.net. You will need to refer to t he specific music license -- they're all a little different -- to make sure it's okay for television and website use.

Can't I use any music under fair use?

You can use a song under fair use only in a news video that is specifically about that song or the artist that performs it. The information in your video must be about the music specifically.

Can I use public domain music?

Public domain music can only be used if it is performed live; that is, you cannot use a pre-existing recording of a public domain song. If you do use a live performance of a public domain song, then you'll need a synchronization license filled out by the performer.