Charles Diaz
Forum Replies Created
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We had a similar problem, green frames littered out export. Going thru the Premiere timeline we discovered it was key frames on a text layer. We deleted the key frames, added them back from scratch (not copy and paste) and the green frames were gone.
What we’d recommend is that you go thru the timeline section by section, rendering out short clips in the problem areas. Turn off elements one by one and render it out until the problem goes away. Once the problem goes away, you’ve found your culprit, for us it was the key frames. We turned off the text layer, rendered it out and the green frames were gone. Then we took action from there.
Hope that helps somebody.
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You’re absolutely right. This is an area of contention though, the question not being in who owns what (since work for hire status requires a contract or similar written agreement), but what action would return the most value. Keeping the footage and demanding to be paid for it would return some money but I’d lose a client for good and potentially damage my reputation. But handing over the footage would return good will and ensure my reputation remains intact. If we were speaking of millions of dollars here, then I’d probably get a lawyer, but my reputation outweighs the money in this case.
Have you been in a similar situation?
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Just a follow-up:
No contract means it is not legally work for hire. Regardless, I gave the footage to the client without complaint — I agree that it is about winning the war and not the battle.
Spoke with the client, too. I wasn’t fired, they’ve given me outstanding references to potential clients and my price line remains intact. A happy ending.
Overall, the response on CC has been fantastic — a very dedicated and helpful community. Thank you everyone. Your insights, points and suggestions have all been noted and taken to heart.
This has been a valuable lesson in pricing, communication and why it’s probably better not to post questions to forums when you’re in the middle of a paranoia-induced panic attack!
Cheers.
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I am learning the importance of contracts, not just as legal protections, but as a way to make it clear to everyone what the rules are. Licensing my work is a very interesting idea…. Thanks for your response. Would love to chat about this kind of stuff and network!
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Fantastic insight, thank you. A lot of things to think about from your response and everyone else’s. This is a lesson in professionalism, economics and interpersonal relationships. Business is very tricky, I’m learning.