Those of us who aspire to make video on a budget that is significantly less than, say $100 million have our own challenges.\u00a0 One of these is finding raw materials – legally – to incorporate into our work.\u00a0 Music is the obvious shortcoming- unless you’re also a songwriter and musician, you probably can’t afford to pay the prices you’d like in order to practice your craft.\u00a0\u00a0 But what about sound effects?\u00a0 Stock video?\u00a0 Even with the growth of low(er) cost licensing sources, you almost have to be a copyright lawyer to navigate all the fine print!\u00a0 Challenges include:<\/p>\n
– Maybe it’s possible to get permission to use music, even for a small fee – but determining who owns the music is often tricky.\u00a0 Using your own performance of a song someone else has written won’t work.<\/p>\n
– Depending on where the video will end up, the “strings” attached in the licensing scheme may have unforeseen consequences.\u00a0 Are you using something with a “creative commons” license?\u00a0 If so, that means your derivative product – i.e. your video, has to have the same license.\u00a0 Are you willing to do that?\u00a0 If so, you might try a couple of my favorites: Jimmy Gelhaar<\/a> or Kevin Macleod’s<\/a> sites.<\/p>\n – photos and video are even trickier, as they’re more prevalent on the ‘net.\u00a0 Think it’s up for grabs because it’s already posted on an internet site for all to see?\u00a0 Think again!<\/p>\n Fortunately there are options.<\/p>\n – Some video editing programs include “sample music” that you are free to use.\u00a0 Be sure and check the fine print!<\/p>\n – There is music in the “public domain” you can use.\u00a0 This can vary by country, so a little research is needed.\u00a0 Whose laws apply?\u00a0 But many classical pieces fit in this category.<\/p>\n – If you’re really into video editing, there are sites that sell music – often on CD – that you are free to use as you wish.\u00a0 One such site (no endorsement by NATO implied) is Digital Juice<\/a>.\u00a0 There are others!\u00a0 Some examples of sites that provide free music and \/ or sound effects are:<\/p>\n\n
\n