Recording in public

[Ryan ToysReview]

I often take my son to the park or indoor playground or amusement park. I always try to just record my son and not other people but sometimes it's unavoidable that other people faces are in the shot I want to use . Is it legal to monetize vidoes with other people in the background in public places? I just want to make sure! Thanks!

 

[GrgakGames]

You could just blur them I suppose

 

[Ryan ToysReview]

True but now to figure out how to to that... Using iMovie still...need to learn how to do more advance editing software. However any one know the legal question to this?

 

[DaRealApollo]

Technically, you can't film other people without them knowing, but no one uses that rule anymore, it's kind of forgotten. You can typically just record people's faces without them knowing and they'll be cool about it, but technically they could sue

 

[offbeatbryce]

Technically, you can't film other people without them knowing, but no one uses that rule anymore, it's kind of forgotten. You can typically just record people's faces without them knowing and they'll be cool about it, but technically they could sue

People still use that rule! The news has to get permission to film people. Unless you can't identify the person

 

[babyteeth4]

You are generally allowed to record images in public places where there is no expectation of privacy (for example, a public street. NOT a public restroom.) But if you want maximum protection from potential lawsuits, you will want to either blur out faces or have people sign a standard video release form (there are many free ones available online). Use your best judgment. A long lingering shot directly on a stranger is more likely to get you sued than a passerby who just happens to walk by in the background.

Conversations are a different matter, many states have wiretapping laws which make it illegal to record other people's conversations, even ones heard in public.

More info here: http://lifehacker.com/5912250/know-your-rights-photography-in-public

 

[ChineseIrish]

I shoot videos in public places all the time and nobody really cares. Sometimes people are unhappy with how they look so they ask me to delete footage or just not use and I respect their wishes.
But in general, if it's just people in the background then I'm not worried. If I want to interview, well then I'll explain that it'll be uploaded to youtube. Most people are pretty happy about that.

 

[JackJack]

I often wonder about some of the bigger youtubers taking unnecessary risks with shooting other people in public. I used to work at a location that was very popular for both big and small productions (tv shows and commercials) to film at, and they ALWAYS asked people to sign releases, even if there was only a small chance of being in the video.

 

[CousinEd]

I often wonder about some of the bigger youtubers taking unnecessary risks with shooting other people in public. I used to work at a location that was very popular for both big and small productions (tv shows and commercials) to film at, and they ALWAYS asked people to sign releases, even if there was only a small chance of being in the video.

The risk is minimal. Particular person need to watch the video, then fill privacy complaint and what worse can happen? They may or may not remove the video? I think it is acceptable penalty if in return you can get great video shots. In my country you can film whatever you want in public/streets etc.

 

[JackJack]

I wouldn't be as concerned about the video being taken down as much as being sued for income on the video.