"flash" clips of broadcast/cable shows
 

Haven't seen this before so I thought I'd ask an opinion. I wanted to open a video with a bit of simulated "channel surfing" before the viewer settles on the actual show. I took short segments of cable shows (QVC, horse racing, infomercials, Discovery etc.) and strung 6 or 7 of them together in a series of <1 sec (usually about 20 frames) clips seperated by a bit of static to simulate someone flipping through channels with the remote control. I tried to avoid channel logos, show title shots etc. Unless you are really looking hard, I think it would be difficult to identify any given show.

Question - anyone see potential for copyright infringement?

BTW - this is academic, the producer didn't like the idea for other reasons, but I think it is still viable technique I may use some other time.

I'm assuming the lack of response indicates that most people did not see a problem. I reviewed the "Fair Use" article posted in the sticky above, and I think this use would fall under the deminimus category - meaning the sample I borrowed is to small and does not steal the essence of someone elses creative work.

I think that's a big assumption. The standard reply to most questions involving using other people's material is don't.

Fair Use is a tricky thing from the articles I have read. It is a defense against copyright infringement that you use if or when you get sued. A judge will decide if it is or isn't. It isn't a right you can claim when you make a video to ward off suits. At least that's my understanding of some of Paul Tauger's articles. Perhaps Paul or someone else will correct me if I'm wrong.

Good luck.

Dennis