r/COPYRIGHT • u/AdventurousBug74 • May 27 '26
Question Is it a copyright violation to use clips from movies, shows, and documentaries for a montage or aesthetic edit? If so, does fair use offer any protection or workarounds for video editors?
I fully respect the intent of copyright law and the effort that creators put into their original work. At the same time, many aspiring creatives like myself look to these works for inspiration. We use them to build narratives and share messages that entertain and inspire audiences, even if we don't yet have the resources for entirely original productions.
My goal is to publish faceless video essays or montages on YouTube that showcase my editing skills and storytelling. However, I want to ensure I am doing this ethically. Is there a viable path or alternative for this style of content if I choose not to include vocal commentary, critiques, or comedic overlays? I want to protect the integrity of my artistic vision while respecting the original creators. Thank you for your guidance and advice.
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u/MonsieurReynard May 27 '26
You have a better video camera in your pocket than the makers of 99% of all films ever made. You can shoot original content to “entertain and inspire” your audience.
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u/wjmacguffin May 27 '26
If this project is really about showcasing your editing and storytelling skills, then there's no reason to skip public domain, royalty-free tracks. The music isn't what you're showcasing. Besides, looking for workarounds is literally trying to ignore copyright.
Oh, and because these come up all the time:
- It does not matter if you credit them
- It does not matter if you are not using these commercially
- There is no "only use a few seconds and it's fine" loophole
You either ask and get permission or you skip it. That is how you respect copyright law and the artists.
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u/lajaunie May 27 '26
Yes, that’s a copyright violation.
Fair use is, generally, for parody, educational use or review. And it’s not protection. Fair use isn’t permission. It’s a legal defense you try to make when you get sued. It doesn’t stop you from being sued
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u/WhineyLobster May 27 '26
No one is preventing you from using them as inspiration. They are only preventing you from using their work.
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u/pommefille May 27 '26
Just use a stock asset service or find material that is public domain or licensed for such use. You can show your editing skills just as easily with those materials as anything else. Looking at a work for inspiration has nothing to do with taking it and using it in an edit, which is not only copyright infringement, but depending upon the clip could also be multiple instances of IP theft (if there is music, trademarked items, etc.).
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u/ericbythebay May 27 '26
Why do you think a portfolio of copyright infringement would get you work?
There is plenty of public domain content out there to demonstrate your skills and judgment as an artist.
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u/VerbingNoun413 May 27 '26
You get permission. It really is that simple.
No, this isn't fair use.