Original footage from movies in Demo reel.

[eev776]

I'v see several demo reels before were people were using, video footage from movies. Simple thing like ruining actor, old cars or trains.
Is there is certain rules on using footage from movies and then composit with matte painting or add some visual effects.

Thanks!

[scrimski]

It's possible because these people actually worked on that specific shots in these movies. Usually you add a breakdown on shots you did in movies or commercials and send it with the reel or upload it on the same place where you would host your reel.

[eev776]

But I'm talking about when people, use footage from movie and add 3D elements to it, or change background. Almost like, I want to show matte painting skills, and put actor in front of Mattepainting, but I don't have footage so I use footage from movie, cut an actor and place him into my project.
So is there are rules for that like you can use only 3 sec or something.

[Aruna]

There's no official rule, but I wouldn't try to sell your reel with that footage on there. Often, getting footage from a DVD is the best way to practice. You'll have some pretty prestine images to pull keys, test roto, etc. Also, make sure to do a breakdown of the shot. I would choose a shot from a DVD that doesn't contain any effects to start with.

[VFXTalkDotCom]

from what i understand in the print world, legally, if its web res - 72dip and you use the footage in a montage/collage (composite?) then you are fine...

aruna is right as well in that as long as you aren't selling your reel, and are using it to get work, then you really have nothing to worry about and should be able to use as much of anything as you like. i would think, however, that studios would prefer to see your own work since nothing really beats experience.

i probably also wouldnt jack a bunck of shots from king kong if you are planning to send your reel over to peter jackson to check out!

[eev776]

i probably also wouldnt jack a bunck of shots from king kong if you are planning to send your reel over to peter jackson to check out!

Thats a good point :

[girlcompositor]

I know a lot of schools give their students actual footage from movies to work with and I've seen it in reels before. I would at least be sure to put copyrights on your breakdown sheet if nothing else and to say that this wasn't used in the actual movie.

Otherwise you're stealing work from others who actually worked on that show. It's a tricky line to walk, getting permission or using your own is better.

[Scheles]

Hi there. I'm a new member (but long time lurker). In regards to using bootlegged shots in your reel: I'd avoid this. By including this footage on your reel, you are falsely building credability by implying that you actually worked on these films, and devaluing those who actually did. I'd suggest you borrow/rent a video camera (or still camera) and shoot your own backgrounds. If you go to a job interview, feel free to bring these bootlegged examples with you. This way, you can further demonstrate your skills, while being able to disclaim your participation on these projects.

[Scheles]

I'd avoid this practice. It implies that you have actually worked on these films. As a result, you build credibility based the production values of the films that you are bootlegging. Find/shoot your own backgrounds, and do it right.