DVD Slideshows

Help required here please. I have just done a dvd slideshow of a wedding and really enjoyed it. It was a free one that I downloaded and easy to do.

Can anyone recommend programme that I can purchase that is good and easy.

Also am I allowed to put on any song I like or is that illegal?

Any input appreciated.

It's common practice - but it would certainly infringe copyright rights.

Thought so, how risky would it be?

Put the shoe on the other foot - how did you feel about someone 'stealing' your work recently?

I think you can use certain tracks subject to holding a public performance/distribution license - those licenses allow you to distribute a track up to a maximum of 5 times strictly for private use. But the bottom line is copyright would be breached unless you had a license dispensation from the recording artist's agent/recording company. You would also have to display a hologram sticker provided by the company on the DVD case when you purchase a license.

There are libraries of royalty-free tracks which once paid for via a nominal fee, can be redistributed for PRIVATE use without penalty. You can also use 'cover's at a reduced licensing rate as they are prepaid by the cover recording artist.

OK next question

my brother plays classic guitar could he play a track and then I put that one on the dvd or is he not allowed to use anybody elses material.

unless the music was royalty-free, as a cover the music would still be copyright - same would apply - you would need a license to redistribute somebody elses music.

Google 'mechanical licenses & copyright'. You may find out more there, than the very limited info I know.

cool i will investigate further.

^^What he said