Videotaping event

iarasamra · 12-10-2009, 05:43 PM

In March I plan to have a student showcase at a local theater for which we are charging admission to cover expenses of presenting it.

I have questions about videotaping. In the past when I organized events I didn't permit videotaping so that one videographer would videotape only the dancers who gave permission and the videotape was available only for the dancers.

Now with so many devices available, what do most event organizers do? I understand there are issues with music copyright and choreography copyright. And truthfully, I don't want everyone out there videotaping the show. Am I being unrealistic in not wanting people to take flash photography and videotape, since I see people videotaping at events even where it is not permitted?
If my expectations are appropriate and realistic how can I enforce it since this is basically a student event with families and friends attending?

Thanks in advance for all responses.

Samra Iara

lizaj · 12-10-2009, 06:25 PM

Here in the UK, most theatres ban filming and flash photography of these kind of events .....if not photography altogether. This is to prevent misuse of the subject and also so that the audience can fully enjoy a show without being distracted. There are also fears that those in the audience who are epilectic, migraine sufferers might be affected. It's common to have "official filming" and/or "official" photographer. We do with the DVD and stills being available to performers only. At haflas in social clubs I also ask that people only film their own groups/friend's act and not a whole show. Still photos are fine and every group and soloist is asked wether or not they want to be filmed or snapped. It's an additional means of raising a little more money for the charity as well as a record for performers.

alosha · 12-10-2009, 06:26 PM

I think it's a reasonable expectation. The flash photography messes with the ability for YOUR videographer to take good-quality video, and most dancers don't want joe-schmoe off the street videotaping them.

Enforcing, there I think you have to go with the honor-system. Make the request verbally and in the printed programs. If someone is being very obvious about taping, have them removed.

Daimona · 12-10-2009, 06:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by iarasamra

In March I plan to have a student showcase at a local theater for which we are charging admission to cover expenses of presenting it.

I have questions about videotaping. In the past when I organized events I didn't permit videotaping so that one videographer would videotape only the dancers who gave permission and the videotape was available only for the dancers.

Now with so many devices available, what do most event organizers do? I understand there are issues with music copyright and choreography copyright. And truthfully, I don't want everyone out there videotaping the show. Am I being unrealistic in not wanting people to take flash photography and videotape, since I see people videotaping at events even where it is not permitted?
If my expectations are appropriate and realistic how can I enforce it since this is basically a student event with families and friends attending?

You might be unrealistic, but I still think it's worth a try.

You need to give the audience a reminder both before the show starts and during the show that they are not allowed to take photos (with flash) or videotape the show*.

* Perhaps unless they have a specific permission from the organizers. I have asked organizers for permission to take pictures (of course without a flash) during shows that have been announced with "photographing/videographing not allowed". Once the official photographer forgot to bring his spare battery and missed three of the dancers - now three of my pictures appeares at the cover of the DVD from the show.

If you have both a videographer and a photographer*, you should also tell the audience that both the videotape and photographies are available for the dancers after the show and that the flashlight will disturb both the dancers on stage and the video. It's like telling kids what to do or not - if they know why they shouldn't do something, most won't, but some will still do it.

* You could even have two of both to be sure you get the best shots, or somethings happens with the cameras (no more battery, full memory card/tape etc).

Anala · 12-10-2009, 07:51 PM

Hello Samra!

I had the joy of studying with you at a Women of Selket event back in 2007. I have since joined the troupe and become our primary videographer. Here is my advice, based on what I have learned over time. Mind you, I am not giving legal advice.

1. Start by teaching your students about copyright issues and the risks / benefits of recording, publication, and broadcast. Once they understand what the legal issues are, they will be sympathetic to your stance. (Since you said these were your students.) Legal issues can include: copyright issues regarding the recording of choreography and music, protection of the identities of minors and other audience members (and some performers) who may not want their presence recorded, and the issues of using another's image for commercial profit.
2. Then, as others mentioned, clearly state the prohibited activities in your program and at the start of the show. Post signs reinforcing this in prominent locations.
3. Offer students an official recording that is good quality at a reasonable price. Don't gouge on cost here, but do charge a fair rate for expenses and effort. Then, include a legal disclosure on the order form, the cover of the DVD, and the film itself that it is a record for the student's personal use / education only -- this will help to limit your liability.
4. Have someone "back you up" during the show. You will be busy. Have your Significant Other (or the SO of one of the dancers, preferably an SO with an imposing demeanor) stand in the back and watch for violators. A polite tap on the shoulder and reminder that filming is prohibited is normally enough.

I hope this helps!

Regards,

Anala

Samira_dncr · 12-10-2009, 07:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Anala

A polite tap on the shoulder and reminder that filming is prohibited is normally enough.

Yup, usually. I have had people actually removed for videotaping. Sigh. It's so ridiculous what one has to go through to put on a show. I stood in front of someone and literally put my hand in front of their camera to get them to stop...and they got mad at me! HA! I was polite, but I made them put everything away into their camera bag. The crazies....

Anala · 12-10-2009, 08:00 PM

When I have to remind the audience, I make sure to mention how we tend to dance with swords!

Samira_dncr · 12-10-2009, 08:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Anala

When I have to remind the audience, I make sure to mention how we tend to dance with swords!

Freaking brilliant!!!!

iarasamra · 12-11-2009, 04:32 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lizaj

Here in the UK, most theatres ban filming and flash photography of these kind of events .....if not photography altogether. This is to prevent misuse of the subject and also so that the audience can fully enjoy a show without being distracted. There are also fears that those in the audience who are epilectic, migraine sufferers might be affected. It's common to have "official filming" and/or "official" photographer. We do with the DVD and stills being available to performers only. At haflas in social clubs I also ask that people only film their own groups/friend's act and not a whole show. Still photos are fine and every group and soloist is asked wether or not they want to be filmed or snapped. It's an additional means of raising a little more money for the charity as well as a record for performers.

You brought up some additional great points to help people understand the reasons. I had not thought about these aspects, which are very real. Thanks.

iarasamra · 12-11-2009, 04:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Anala

Hello Samra!

I had the joy of studying with you at a Women of Selket event back in 2007. I have since joined the troupe and become our primary videographer. Here is my advice, based on what I have learned over time. Mind you, I am not giving legal advice.

1. Start by teaching your students about copyright issues and the risks / benefits of recording, publication, and broadcast. Once they understand what the legal issues are, they will be sympathetic to your stance. (Since you said these were your students.) Legal issues can include: copyright issues regarding the recording of choreography and music, protection of the identities of minors and other audience members (and some performers) who may not want their presence recorded, and the issues of using another's image for commercial profit.
2. Then, as others mentioned, clearly state the prohibited activities in your program and at the start of the show. Post signs reinforcing this in prominent locations.
3. Offer students an official recording that is good quality at a reasonable price. Don't gouge on cost here, but do charge a fair rate for expenses and effort. Then, include a legal disclosure on the order form, the cover of the DVD, and the film itself that it is a record for the student's personal use / education only -- this will help to limit your liability.
4. Have someone "back you up" during the show. You will be busy. Have your Significant Other (or the SO of one of the dancers, preferably an SO with an imposing demeanor) stand in the back and watch for violators. A polite tap on the shoulder and reminder that filming is prohibited is normally enough.

I hope this helps!

Regards,

Anala

Hi,

Congratulations on joining the Women of Selket. That troupe and each individual lady has inspired me and so many others throughout the years. I am sure that you are a great addition to the troupe.

I am taking notes of all the great suggestions. My students understand a lot of this, since I do not permit videotaping in class, and I have been very adamant about understanding and respecting copyright. Also the possibility of their image appearing in unexpected places.

It is their friends and relatives and the general public that I worry about.
We just performed at a city sponsored event at the same theater and everyone is videotaping, so they are going to thing we are the meanies. But I can handle that.
Thanks,
Samra

12-10-2009, 05:43 PM	#1 (permalink)
iarasamra Junior Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Posts: 17	Videotaping event In March I plan to have a student showcase at a local theater for which we are charging admission to cover expenses of presenting it. I have questions about videotaping. In the past when I organized events I didn't permit videotaping so that one videographer would videotape only the dancers who gave permission and the videotape was available only for the dancers. Now with so many devices available, what do most event organizers do? I understand there are issues with music copyright and choreography copyright. And truthfully, I don't want everyone out there videotaping the show. Am I being unrealistic in not wanting people to take flash photography and videotape, since I see people videotaping at events even where it is not permitted? If my expectations are appropriate and realistic how can I enforce it since this is basically a student event with families and friends attending? Thanks in advance for all responses. Samra Iara

12-10-2009, 06:26 PM	#3 (permalink)
alosha V.I.P. Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: The Dalles, Oregon Posts: 2,193	I think it's a reasonable expectation. The flash photography messes with the ability for YOUR videographer to take good-quality video, and most dancers don't want joe-schmoe off the street videotaping them. Enforcing, there I think you have to go with the honor-system. Make the request verbally and in the printed programs. If someone is being very obvious about taping, have them removed. __________________ Nothing moves like silk ~ gentle and rippling ~ leaving the ethereal image of the dancer in its wake Work Of Art Creations

12-10-2009, 07:51 PM	#5 (permalink)
Anala Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Mid Atlantic, USA Posts: 704	Hello Samra! I had the joy of studying with you at a Women of Selket event back in 2007. I have since joined the troupe and become our primary videographer. Here is my advice, based on what I have learned over time. Mind you, I am not giving legal advice. 1. Start by teaching your students about copyright issues and the risks / benefits of recording, publication, and broadcast. Once they understand what the legal issues are, they will be sympathetic to your stance. (Since you said these were your students.) Legal issues can include: copyright issues regarding the recording of choreography and music, protection of the identities of minors and other audience members (and some performers) who may not want their presence recorded, and the issues of using another's image for commercial profit. 2. Then, as others mentioned, clearly state the prohibited activities in your program and at the start of the show. Post signs reinforcing this in prominent locations. 3. Offer students an official recording that is good quality at a reasonable price. Don't gouge on cost here, but do charge a fair rate for expenses and effort. Then, include a legal disclosure on the order form, the cover of the DVD, and the film itself that it is a record for the student's personal use / education only -- this will help to limit your liability. 4. Have someone "back you up" during the show. You will be busy. Have your Significant Other (or the SO of one of the dancers, preferably an SO with an imposing demeanor) stand in the back and watch for violators. A polite tap on the shoulder and reminder that filming is prohibited is normally enough. I hope this helps! Regards, Anala __________________ The Practical Dancer

12-10-2009, 08:00 PM	#7 (permalink)
Anala Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Mid Atlantic, USA Posts: 704	When I have to remind the audience, I make sure to mention how we tend to dance with swords! __________________ The Practical Dancer

12-10-2009, 06:25 PM	#2 (permalink)
lizaj Moderator Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: UK Posts: 4,247	Here in the UK, most theatres ban filming and flash photography of these kind of events .....if not photography altogether. This is to prevent misuse of the subject and also so that the audience can fully enjoy a show without being distracted. There are also fears that those in the audience who are epilectic, migraine sufferers might be affected. It's common to have "official filming" and/or "official" photographer. We do with the DVD and stills being available to performers only. At haflas in social clubs I also ask that people only film their own groups/friend's act and not a whole show. Still photos are fine and every group and soloist is asked wether or not they want to be filmed or snapped. It's an additional means of raising a little more money for the charity as well as a record for performers.