Question by Ray Dewayne Studios: Can you use Stock Footage in a independent feature film?
I’m currently planning to film one of my screenplays and submit it to different film festival and i was wondering is it legal to use stock footage “like stock photography but video” in a feature film. For example if I don’t have the production budget to shoot a car chase scene or a explosion can I use stock footage?
And I know people!… If I used a red car exploding i would also get the same make and model to film with… I already know about continuity.
Best answer:
Answer by vyperbyte
Absolutely, as long as you acquire it legally (as in purchasing it from a stock footage company or licensing it from the owner of the rights to the footage). Just make sure you have the rights to use it in writing – most stock footage companies have simple agreements and/or licensing on the purchase invoice. Many films use stock footage to save on production costs. It’s completely legitimate.
The only drawback is that you have to take what’s out there, so if you have specific camera angles or location (such as a car chase down Santa Monica Blvd.), it might be tough to find a matching stock footage shot. Additionally, you might be limited to one version or one angle of the scene. Other than that, it’s a perfectly good way to go.
Good luck!
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