Legal Question in Entertainment Law in California

Re: Releases for Documentary Film Participants

I think the general rule is if they are identifiable in the shot, you should get a release. Always act on the side of caution.

Re: Releases for Documentary Film Participants

You should get releases.

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Re: Releases for Documentary Film Participants

A documentary filmmaker generally must get releases for any person who is "identifiable" in the film, or they must edit the film in such a way as they are no longer identifiable. There are some exceptions to this rule, but those go beyond the scope of this service. When making a documentary, it is imperitive that you hire a competent entertainment/ first amendment attorney for this and several other legal issues that naturally arise when one is filming in uncontrolled public places.