I get asked a lot about whether it's okay to narrate my stories, so much so in fact that I'm leaving this FAQ here to answer that question and a few others for anyone.
1) Can I narrate, adapt or use one of your stories?
I'm always flattered when someone wants to use one of my stories. But we need to have a quick chat via email just to make sure we're on the same page before I give you permission. My email address is michaelwhitehouse@ghastlytalespublishing.com
2) Your stories are public domain, why do I even need your permission?
None of my stories are in the public domain. You're legally required to have written confirmation from me to use my work, especially for a commercial project (even Youtube).
3) But X website says your stories can be used without permission?
Those websites, including the creepypasta wiki, are incorrect. In some cases, other people have posted my stories without permission, and in others, someone has edited the license agreement to make it appear as though my stories can be used without my permission.
4) What do I need to do to get your permission to use your work?
I negotiate on a case by case basis. It really depends on what the nature of your project is, and if it's commercial or not.
5) Do I need to pay you to use your stories?
Again, I negotiate on a case by case basis. However, if you are going to make any money from my work, then you will be required to pay me either a cut of revenue or a one-off fee.
6) How much?
It depends on the size of your project. A rule of thumb is 10% of the money you'll make from using my work, but if this doesn't suit, a one time fee is also acceptable.
7) But what if I don't make any money?
If it's a non-commercial project (no adverts or direct sales) then I'm open to allowing my work to be used for a nominal fee of $1. But again, it depends.
8) But writers X, Y, and Z, let me use their stories for nothing!
I understand your frustration, but by paying writers nothing when others are profiting from their works, we all share the blame for devaluing writing as an artform. Do you expect to work for free? Neither should a writer.
1) Can I narrate, adapt or use one of your stories?
I'm always flattered when someone wants to use one of my stories. But we need to have a quick chat via email just to make sure we're on the same page before I give you permission. My email address is michaelwhitehouse@ghastlytalespublishing.com
2) Your stories are public domain, why do I even need your permission?
None of my stories are in the public domain. You're legally required to have written confirmation from me to use my work, especially for a commercial project (even Youtube).
3) But X website says your stories can be used without permission?
Those websites, including the creepypasta wiki, are incorrect. In some cases, other people have posted my stories without permission, and in others, someone has edited the license agreement to make it appear as though my stories can be used without my permission.
4) What do I need to do to get your permission to use your work?
I negotiate on a case by case basis. It really depends on what the nature of your project is, and if it's commercial or not.
5) Do I need to pay you to use your stories?
Again, I negotiate on a case by case basis. However, if you are going to make any money from my work, then you will be required to pay me either a cut of revenue or a one-off fee.
6) How much?
It depends on the size of your project. A rule of thumb is 10% of the money you'll make from using my work, but if this doesn't suit, a one time fee is also acceptable.
7) But what if I don't make any money?
If it's a non-commercial project (no adverts or direct sales) then I'm open to allowing my work to be used for a nominal fee of $1. But again, it depends.
8) But writers X, Y, and Z, let me use their stories for nothing!
I understand your frustration, but by paying writers nothing when others are profiting from their works, we all share the blame for devaluing writing as an artform. Do you expect to work for free? Neither should a writer.
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