Copyright+Info

NEW Copyright Info
This year I am not allowing any kind of copyrighted material to be used in projects. There are always too many problems and I've seen some great projects get disqualified as a result. So if you've heard a song on the radio that you really like and you want to include it in your movie, too bad, you lose. But that doesn't mean you can't have any music at all, there are always options.

__Option 1__: Make your own music. Write a song, play the guitar, whatever, make your own background music or take your own pictures. Stealing off the internet is not allowed. Even if you bought a song on itunes or you bought the cd, that doesn't matter. You can't use it. So make your own. __Option 2__: Freeware. You are allowed to use uncopyrighted works in your project. Just go onto Google and type in something like "Free music" or "Uncopyrighted music" or "Free images" or "Uncopyrighted clipart" or whatever. In most cases this should be fine.

If you have any questions or you're just not sure, please see me.

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OLD Copyright Info (not for you) ===== If you are using a piece of work that is copyrighted, be sure to get permission so you don’t get disqualified. For example, in order to use a popular song you must get permission from the artist first. Here are some tips for obtaining copyright permission:
 * 1) Find out who is the owner of the copyrighted work (an internet search works, or check the actual book or cd.)
 * 2) Type a __formal__ letter to the owner, asking permission to use their work. Include the specific name of the work you want to use, and the reason why you want to use it. For example, explain that you would like to use the song “Blah blah blah” by Britney Spears. Then explain what computer fair is, and how that song will be used in an educational manner. It is really important that you stress that this will be used for education only!
 * 3) In your letter, make sure you include a self-addressed stamped envelope. That means that inside of the envelope, you should have a second envelope that is addressed TO you, with a stamp already on it. We do this so that the person giving you permission to use the copyrighted work can easily send you a signed reply.
 * 4) Start immediately. This whole process may take a few months for you to get a response, and you need to obtain permission before the competition or you will be disqualified.