Copyrighted Logos On A Field Shoot?

mjroddy wrote on 11/1/2005, 9:45 AM
I'm thinking about doing a short film, part of which will be located in a supermarket.
Assuming I get permission to shoot in a national chain (good luck!) and assuming this short is seen by more than my family, what do I have to think about as far as all the gazillion logos I'll see if I pan an aisle or two?
Thanks much for all help and ideas.

Comments

Chienworks wrote on 11/1/2005, 10:07 AM
This is not a legal opinion in the slightest, but merely my off-the-cuff response ...

Those companies spent good money on those logos so that they will be seen! As long as you aren't using the logos to promote your own video or service, and that you don't detract from the brand owner's recognition or reputation, they would probably be delighted to have their logos show up in your film.

Heck, companies like PepsiCo regularly pay enormous sums to have their logos featured in films.
mjroddy wrote on 11/1/2005, 10:21 AM
"Heck, companies like PepsiCo regularly pay enormous sums to have their logos featured in films."

hmmm.... product placement.... I never thought of that. I'll just have them stand in the Kampbells section and see if I can get and endorcement! HAHAHa! Have THEM pay for my flick! :-)

Thanks for backing up what I hoped would be the case.
Jeff_Smith wrote on 11/1/2005, 11:58 AM
I worked on a short where the director purposely rotated a beer bottle label from view because she was concerned that she did not have the rights. Our short was somewhat irreverent and the beer company may not have liked it.
mjroddy wrote on 11/1/2005, 4:33 PM
Yeah, when I shoot my cable commercials, I always face logos away from the camera since I don't know if that product wants to be associated with the client I'm advertising. But I didn't think that was realistic when I had 3-4 wide shots in the supermarket.
Thanks again.
birdcat wrote on 11/2/2005, 7:40 AM
Since you won't be focussing on one or two products but aisle's full, might not the same rule be applied when you are shooting public scenes (i.e. if you focus on one person, get a release, if you shoot the whole street with hundreds of folks it's not necessary)?

Just a thought.