No. Make sure all music, video clips, and images in your project are copyright-free (or that you have permission).

We recommend using copyright-free / royalty-free / public domain elements in your film. Visit Film Resources to find these elements.

Any elements in your film or art, including but without limitation to music, audio, stills, video, supers, or other audiovisual materials used must:

• be entirely original, created and performed by the entrant and/or participants; or
• be in the public domain as creative work not protected by trademark or copyright, which can be used freely by anyone; or
• be purchased or released trademarked or released copyrighted elements, such as music, photographs, or logos.
• not have used AI to create any part of the entry (including but not limited to: script, background, editing, etc.). AI models are based on millions of images, including artists’ work, therefore this is not considered to be original work. As storytellers, artists and filmmakers we ask that you act with honesty, integrity, and respect as you create your films for this contest. 

To submit proof of release and permission to use copyrighted materials, please include a signed letter or email from the rights holder that indicates the title of the film or art, the name of the contest, the student name or advisor name and indicates that there is no restriction to how the film containing the music/pictures/film is used.

Entries that include copyrighted materials or music without the proper permission and signed release forms will be disqualified.

Pictures and Film Clips: You may use public domain images and film clips in your film or art if you cite your sources in the credits. Please note: Images found in Google searches or elsewhere on the Internet are protected by copyright laws, even without a copyright symbol.

Music: Original music or music in the public domain (royalty-free) may be used in your film or art if the source is cited in the credits. See the Film Resources page for royalty-free music sites. This means you can’t just download your favorite song.

Logos: While it may not be possible to keep all brands out of view, there are easy ways to avoid them from showing. For example, dress your actors in clothing without logos, cover up laptop brands with a sticker or sticky note, or frame your shots so that recognizable stores are not highlighted. Using a brand may limit the use of your film on television or in movie theaters, due to brand copyright laws.

There is a US Copyright Fair Use Policy that allows teachers and students to use copyright-protected material in the classroom. Directing Change entries DO NOT fall under Fair Use guidelines. Since Directing Change-nominated videos and art might be shown publicly, copyright law must be followed. More resources:

Library of Congress’ Taking the Mystery out of Copyright: an interactive site for teens to learn about the many aspects of copyright.

Copyright and Public Domain: A reference site to help identify public domain songs and public domain music, royalty-free music you can use anywhere and any way you choose, performance, sing-along, film, video, advertising, business, or personal.