Legal Tips for Nonprofit Video Production: Copyright, Privacy & Permissions
Table of Contents
- Introduction: Why Legal Compliance Matters in Nonprofit Video Production
- Copyright Laws: Protecting Your Content and Avoiding Violations
- Privacy Laws: Ensuring Ethical and Legal Video Production
- Securing Permissions: Consent Forms, Licenses & Releases
- Best Practices for Legally-Compliant Nonprofit Video Production
- Case Studies: Real-World Legal Issues in Nonprofit Video Production
- Conclusion & Next Steps
1. Introduction: Why Legal Compliance Matters in Nonprofit Video Production
Nonprofit video production is one of the most effective ways to communicate your mission, attract donors, and engage your community.
However, legal issues such as copyright infringement, privacy violations, and unauthorized use of content can quickly lead to lawsuits or content takedowns.
In today's digital world, nonprofit video production plays a crucial role in storytelling, fundraising, and donor engagement. However, ensuring legal compliance in areas like copyright, privacy laws, and securing permissions is essential for ethical and lawful content creation
Why Legal Compliance is Essential for Nonprofits
- Avoid copyright infringement claims that may result in hefty fines.
- Protect your organization’s reputation by respecting privacy laws.
- Secure proper permissions to ensure your videos remain online.
- Build trust with stakeholders, donors, and beneficiaries through ethical storytelling.
2. Copyright Laws: Protecting Your Content and Avoiding Violations
Copyright law protects creative works, including videos, images, music, and scripts. As a nonprofit, it’s critical to understand copyright to prevent using unauthorized content.
A. What is Copyright?
Copyright grants the creator exclusive rights over their work. Using copyrighted content without permission can lead to content removal, lawsuits, or hefty fines.
B. How to Use Content Legally
- Use Royalty-Free Content – Platforms like Pexels, Pixabay, Storyblocks, and Artlist offer copyright-free music, images, and videos.
- License Music & Footage – Purchase stock music or footage from sources like Epidemic Sound or Envato Elements.
- Create Original Content – Producing in-house content avoids copyright risks.
C. Understanding Fair Use in Nonprofit Video Production
Some nonprofits assume they can use copyrighted material under fair use, but this is not always the case. Fair use depends on:
- The purpose (educational/nonprofit use is more favorable).
- The amount of copyrighted content used.
- The effect on the original creator’s market.
Example:
✅ Allowed: Using a short clip of an educational video for commentary.
❌ Not Allowed: Using an entire song or film clip in a nonprofit event promo.
3. Privacy Laws: Ensuring Ethical and Legal Video Production
Privacy laws vary by country, but the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) are two key laws affecting nonprofits.
A. GDPR & Privacy in Video Production
If your nonprofit operates in the EU or collects data from EU residents, you must comply with GDPR. This means:
- Getting explicit consent before recording people.
- Allowing individuals to opt out if they do not want to appear in the video.
- Keeping data secure if you store recordings of personal stories.
B. COPPA & Filming Minors
If your video includes children under 13, COPPA requires:
- Parental consent before filming.
- Restricted online sharing to avoid privacy violations.
- Clear disclosure of how the video will be used.
C. Privacy Considerations for Nonprofit Videos
- Blur faces or mute voices when privacy is requested.
- Avoid revealing sensitive information about people in crisis.
- Obtain signed consent from everyone appearing in the video.
4. Securing Permissions: Consent Forms, Licenses & Releases
A. Why You Need Permission for Video Production
Even if the video is for charitable purposes, you still need permission to film and distribute content legally.
B. Types of Permissions Required
C. Where to Get Legal Forms
Many nonprofit organizations use templates from:
- Creative Commons (for open-source licensing).
- American Bar Association (for standard legal forms).
- Local legal advisors (for country-specific laws).
5. Best Practices for Legally-Compliant Nonprofit Video Production
A. Do’s & Don’ts of Nonprofit Video Production
✅ Do:
- Always credit creators when using external content.
- Keep a record of all signed release forms.
- Verify music licenses before using them.
❌ Don’t:
- Assume fair use applies to all nonprofit videos.
- Use copyrighted YouTube or Instagram clips without permission.
- Record private events or confidential meetings.
6. Case Studies: Real-World Legal Issues in Nonprofit Video Production
Case Study 1: Unlicensed Music in a Nonprofit Video
A nonprofit uploaded a fundraising video featuring a popular song. Within 24 hours, YouTube removed the video due to a copyright claim. Lesson? Always use licensed or royalty-free music.
Case Study 2: Privacy Violation in Documentary-Style Videos
A nonprofit filmed a community project but didn’t get signed consent from all individuals. Some people later complained, and the video had to be taken down. Lesson? Always obtain release forms before filming.
7. Conclusion & Next Steps
Navigating legal considerations in nonprofit video production is essential to protect your organization from lawsuits, copyright claims, and privacy violations.
By following the best practices outlined here, nonprofits can create impactful, ethical, and legally compliant videos.
Next Steps:
📌 Download a free legal checklist for nonprofit videos.
📌 Consult a legal expert before publishing sensitive content.
📌 Read next: Expert Video Production for Nonprofits | Inspire and Engage