Using Copyrighted Music in Wedding Videos

[kwv2006]

Hi, I have started a wedding videography business and I have a question about using copyrighted music in the videos. I have managed thus far to use royalty free music, but I know at some point some client is going to want their favorite song on the tape. If they themselves provide the music to me that they have purchased and I use it for their video would that still be a big no-no? If it is, are there any suggestions for what to do?

Thank you in advance

Holly

[seniorjudge]

If you use a work that is copyrighted, you must get the okay from the copyright holder.

[aaron]

If you wish to offer the use of copyrighted music as an add-on, your basic contract should indicate that your fees are premised on the use of royalty free music, that additional costs will apply for licensing works for use in the videos, and that not all copyrighted works will be available for license. You can then apply for permission from the copyright holder (e.g., here's Sony/BMG's application) and find out what the cost would be. If it's acceptable to your customer, you can proceed to license and use the song.

[kwv2006]

Thank you so much for your advice, it was very helpful.

Holly