In today's complex media environment, amateur filmmakers and others at work in the media arts may feel as vulnerable as swimmers in shark-infested waters. This guide is designed to give creative artists a solid understanding of the legal concepts they need in order to swim safely with lawyers, agents, executives, and other experts in intellectual property and business law. The book explains in everyday language how to spot the important issues, know what questions to ask, recognize situations to avoid, and benefit from the law that envelops the work of the creative artist. How do I copyright my screenplay? How can I clear rights for my film project? What can I do to avoid legal trouble when I produce my mockumentary? How do I ascertain whether a vintage novel is in the public domain? Is the trademark I've invented for my production company available? What about copyright and trademark rights overseas? If I upload my film to YouTube, do I give up any rights? The authors answer these questions and scores of others, not only demystifying the fundamental principles of intellectual property but also illuminating important developments in the rapidly-changing media environment of today.