I shot some footage of a man being attacked by a tiger a year or so ago. He will not sign a release without some insane amount of money, not like he's famous or anything. His face isn't all that visible or clear on the footage. I wanted to use it for a DVD that will eventually be for sale. Since he's not talking or acting, and barely recognizeable do I need a release? Can I get by with blurring his face, or is the location itself copy protected as well?

Hope I posted in the right area.

I'm not sure what the legal ramifications are, but I'd offer him a royalty - a percentage of gross receipts.

I tried. He seems to have some huge ego and wants "Hollywood Blockbuster" money. I was also thinking, I was wrong, the DVD I have that footage slated for is not going to be retail. It will be free. I will make no money on it. Would that make any difference?

Paid or free video makes no difference, Spend a few bucks on an attorney to review the footage and give you opinion about blurring face.

I shot some footage of a man being attacked by a tiger a year or so ago.
Where was this shot? Where did the incident take place? If it was in a public place, you don't need a release. If his face is not recognizable (identifiable), you don't need a release.

{edit}
Visit these sites and read the document: http://www.krages.com/ThePhotographersRight.pdf
http://www.nppa.org/news_and_events/news/2005/08/rights.html

The same would apply to video.

Jay

It was filmed at Out of Africa wildlife park. He is the owner of the park. It was shot with me sitting in the audience and him presenting the animals from within a huge enclosure.

Thanks for all the help thus far.

Get peace of mind. Sit down with an attorney.

It was filmed at Out of Africa wildlife park. He is the owner of the park. It was shot with me sitting in the audience and him presenting the animals from within a huge enclosure.

Thanks for all the help thus far.
That's totally different. His property; his business; his animal; your loss. That does require a release. Sorry.

Jay

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Oh yeah.... Also.....

Ask An Attorney.

Thanks y'all, maybe I'll promise the guy a million yen....lol

Whatever you do, keep us posted!