NoBs Digital Dogbowl

Hot Topic On NoBS: Using Copyrighted Music

In the past month or so (longer it seems), NoBS members have bounced around the topic of using copyrighted music. An interesting and incredibly informative article recently appearing in Studio Photography Magazine was referenced. To read the article click here. The article is concisely written and answers everything you need to know about the copyright issue specifically relating to music.

Coincidentally, the Professional Photographers of America, which was interviewed for this article recently sent an e-mail out to members regarding the very same issue. Below is the e-mail:

"If you believe in something, you should stand up for it. Almost every photographer I know says that protecting copyright is important...that people shouldn't even think of using a copyrighted photograph without permission. But do we stand by that belief when it comes to another industry?

Since we fight to protect the copyrights of photographers, how can we not protect the copyrights of others such as singers, musicians, software developers, film makers, etc?

Here's the dilemma: how do you, as a professional photographer, stay competitive and use music that your customers want on DVDs and other slideshows without violating the copyrights of singers, songwriters and musicians? After all, part of protecting a law is to respect it yourself.

But obtaining licenses to use popular music on a DVD can be expensive and time-consuming. For one thing, you need a master use license and a synchronization license from (possibly) multiple rights holders. Using music in your studio might even require a performance license.

Just figuring out what you need and who to contact can make your head hurt! No need for aspirin, though, just turn to PPA.

PPA has compiled information and explanations to help you make sense of music licensing. You can find the information you need in the Member's Only Download area at the PPA's website. Look under the Business heading. PPA members can consider options other than licensing popular music (because of the expense and difficulties required). You can find out more about both opportunities in the Member's Only area under Business Services. Take advantage of PPA member discounts with Stock20.com for quality, "royalty-free" music. Go to Brokenjoeyrecords.com to access custom-recorded, lyric-based, quality music, and get a discount.

Helping photographers find what they need and standing up for copyright is just another part of PPA.

Sincerely,

Al Hopper

Director of Membership, Copyright & Government Affair"

So, where do you find music then for your slideshow? Aside from Stock20 and Broken Joey Records, another popular website for royalty-free music is Music Bakery.

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