If you’re using third-party materials in your film, doc, web series, or branded content, chances are someone else owns the rights — and you’ll need their permission. That’s where a Materials Release Form comes in.
At its core, a materials release is a legal document that gives your production the right to use pre-existing materials you didn’t create. That could include logos, posters, social media clips, screen recordings, archival footage, behind-the-scenes videos — basically anything you didn’t personally shoot or design.
But here’s the nuance:
You don’t always need one.
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FAQ
A materials release form is a legal agreement that gives your production the right to use footage, photos, artwork, or any other materials you didn’t personally create. It protects you from copyright claims and helps you meet distribution or insurance requirements.
You need a materials release when using content created by someone else — such as social media clips, BTS footage, logos, artwork, news footage, or archived video. If you didn’t create it and it appears intentionally in your project, a release is recommended.
Not always. If the item is shown incidentally (i.e. in the background and not part of the story), you’re usually safe. But if it’s featured, discussed, or plays a role in the narrative, you may need a release or license.
Yes. The copyright owner could request your project be taken down, demand licensing fees, or even pursue legal action. Platforms, streamers, and insurance companies also require proof of rights, so skipping the release could block distribution.
No. A materials release covers non-human, non-location content like photos, artwork, or video clips. If you’re filming at a location or using someone’s likeness, you’ll need a separate location release or appearance release.
