Here are some good tips when it comes to copyright laws and the Church. I would like to thank the main source of this information, Collide Magazine.
Live Streaming Copyrighted Images
Churches frequently use photos and other images to illustrate points during a sermon or to provide a backdrop to a performer. You need permission to live stream any copyrighted image. If the image is provided by a church member, be certain to get a release form signed by him or her. Let Global Ministry Media create your graphics so you and your ministry can stay clear of violations.
Live Streaming Sound Recordings.
Commercial sound recordings are often played during services. These recordings might be background music on animations or professional split tracks. In order to webcast these recordings, you must get permission from the owner of the recording. There is currently no simple blanket license for sound recordings, but some record labels will issue webcasting licenses for churches. The reproduction of third party sound recordings is not covered under either the WORSHIPcast license or the CCLI license.
Getting permissions for sound recordings can be a time-consuming process, particularly if you are using them every week. Considering this, you should avoid using sound recordings in your services if you intend to webcast those services. You should also check with your split track provider to verify that Internet rights are included with your purchases.
Live Streaming Song Lyrics
It is common practice to put song lyrics up on a screen during song performances. Your CCLI license (www.ccli.com) covers the reproduction or copying of 200,000 songs for congregational use in your church’s facilities, but it does not cover any activity on your website. Permission is required from the song’s owner to stream these song lyrics. Many churches avoid the problem by keeping their video screens out of frame when recording the service.
Live Streaming Song Performances
This is the most common usage of copyrights in services. For a church to legally live stream its performances of copyrighted songs, it must secure an Internet performance license from song owners, publishers, or U.S. performance rights organizations.
Live Streaming People
You can avoid another common hazard by securing written permission from any person who may be included in your recordings. Make sure that anyone performing, singing, or playing instruments in your audio/visual production has signed a “consent and release” form granting you permission to use their contribution in any manner you desire. It’s best to have all staff members and regular volunteers sign a simple one-page agreement annually.
The issue of filming or photographing people in the audience is much more challenging. You can post notices at every entrance to your worship center notifying people that they may be filmed or photographed, but that may not be enough. It may be wise to obtain legal advice regarding your liability concerning privacy issues, or you may want to avoid using any footage or photos of the congregation. You must especially consider privacy issues regarding minors in your youth programs, and it is best to have parents sign a waiver to cover your right for this type of activity.
When it comes to ministry, the last thing many of us want to talk about is the legal code. However, it’s vital that churches understand applicable copyright laws as they leverage new technologies for the Kingdom of God. Knowing what you can and can’t do when you webcast your church services will both protect your church from legal ramifications and allow you to stream your message with integrity.
Check out http://www.Churchandministryresourcenetwork.com for a christian lawyer at US Church Law. I recommend Dan Beirute as a great christian attorney. His number is 918-392-1956.
