Synchronization Licensing of Music for Commercially Prepared Videos

[pelagic_one]

Should we be obtaining Synchronization Licenses for music we use in our commercially prepared wedding videos, and similar video projects?

I ask this because, although there are artist-approved free music available in the public domain, I still see popular tunes being used extensively. Here is one site that describes the Synch License process: What is a synchronization license? - Easy Song Licensing

Although I’m not yet flying under Part 107, I’m thinking it’s inevitable, given the number of wedding videos I’ve made for friends and family. So I thought I’d ask before I start down the commercial path. Of course I’m trying to justify a quick upgrade of my Xmas-gifted Mini to a M2P. That will take a wife’s approval, along with the correct math to show her how I’m going to pay for everything!

 

[Dave Maine]

Yes, if you don’t want to violate the law. This is true for any footage, not just drone.

The odds of being pursued are low, but you are violating the law.

 

[pelagic_one]

Thank you for the response, Dave. It seemed like an obvious answer, but I’m grateful for the confirmation,