Video Rules

I have been in the process of trying to make a video from second life footage. It would be somewhat chronicling some of my experiences on Second Life using the linux alpha client and also showcasing using all open source software in the development of such videos.

I want to create a video showing just avatars and surroundings, and received correspondence from a Linden referring me to this forum to ask the question. His response seemed to reflect that making available video of avatars without permission was walking a fine line.

The problem is that becomes very burdensome when one is trying to take video of a large group gathering.

So I am trying to find current guidelines about taking video in Second Life. I have viewed some of the videos done by other users and there is a wide variety in what people do and do not include.

Thank you for your time.

It does become burdensome in large crowds to ask, but think of the benefits: other Residents may be curious and eagerly anticipate the video you're making, so consider the possibilities of having a larger audience.

That being said, there isn't a hard "rule": just make sure the Community Standards are being followed, and if someone expressly says they don't wish to be a part of your movie, then don't shoot them... in the cinematic sense. Otherwise, I wouldn't worry much about it.

In relation, it also helps to ask fellow filmmakers what approach worked best for them, and if you're shooting at special locations and have guest avatars featured, credits are always nice!