Original video file: rights of AI
Paying for video production does not automatically mean you own the project files or raw footage unless the contract specifies.
By default, ownership rights to works created by hired authors usually belong to the hiring party unless the contract states otherwise (for videos, the law has specific provisions regarding cinematographic works, and signing with a production company typically transfers rights through the assignment clause); however, being provided with project files or raw materials is a separate matter that must be specified. To receive the original files, you need to include a delivery clause from the very first signing. If the contract only states the delivery of the finished video, the production company is not obligated to provide the source files.
- need the in-house team to adjust slightly or create multilingual versions later
- Finalize the terms to transfer all rights and original files directly in the contract.
- only the release is needed; receiving multi-format exports is sufficient
- I thought paying for the video production automatically meant owning the original files.
This question often arises after the video has been delivered and a small detail needs urgent editing. Asking at that point is too late. The short answer: the right to receive the original files is not automatic; it must be stated in the contract from the beginning.
Three different things to distinguish
Many people say "original file" but are actually thinking of three very different things, each with its own value and delivery conditions:
- Final deliverable: rendered MP4, MOV files. This is what is typically delivered when the contract states "delivery of the completed product." The content inside cannot be edited.
- Editing project files: After Effects, Premiere, DaVinci projects. Editable, allowing changes to text, color, duration, and motion graphics. Dependent on compatible software and versions.
- Raw footage: all unedited material. Large file size, usually the production unit keeps it for a limited time and deletes it if the contract does not require storage.
The contract should clearly state which of the three items you are receiving, avoiding the ambiguous term "original file."
Copyright and ownership belong to whom
You need to separate the two layers. The ownership rights to works created under contract, according to Article 39 of the Intellectual Property Law, belong to the contracting party unless the contract states otherwise. For videos, there are two points that require legal review: many advertising videos may be classified as cinematographic works, where the Intellectual Property Law determines ownership based on the financial and technical investment; and when signing with a production company (legal entity), rights typically transfer to you through the assignment clause. However, that is a right, while whether the production company must deliver the project files and raw materials to you depends on the delivery clause. Many foreign practices allow creators to retain rights to raw materials and project files unless the contract states otherwise; this is just a reference and does not replace Vietnamese law.
To ensure both parties are covered, the contract should include:
- Rights terms: clearly state which party owns the rights, the scope and duration of use, even when it defaults to you.
- Delivery terms: list the types of files delivered (final product, project files, raw footage), formats, software versions, and storage duration.
Note: these terms are subject to the Intellectual Property Law and the Civil Code. Legal confirmation is needed before including them in a specific contract.
When you need the original files, and when you don't need them.
A special case: if you want the freedom to switch to another production unit without depending on the old one, having the project files and clear usage rights is important. This needs to be stated from the beginning, not a matter to negotiate after delivery.
Common issues when receiving original files
- Payment does not automatically guarantee file delivery: rights and obligations regarding delivery are two separate matters; the contract terms determine the delivery.
- Receiving the files but unable to open them: project files depend on specific software, versions, fonts, and plugins. Without a complete list and compatible software, the files cannot be used even if received.
- Having the files but music and voiceovers are still bound by individual licenses: the project files containing music do not mean you can use that music in new situations. Each audio and visual asset has its own licensing conditions.
- No recording terms from the beginning: When urgent changes are needed, negotiations take time and often incur unforeseen costs.
A video production contract should clearly state who owns what: raw footage, project files, editing lists, not just the final version.
MovieMaker, Who Owns What: Raw Footage vs Completed Project
Common practices of the profession
A complete video delivery package typically includes the final edit in various aspect ratios (16:9, 9:16, 1:1, 4:5), the source editing files, and a motion graphics template for your internal team to continue updating without starting from scratch. Each item should be listed in the contract, along with the licensing conditions for each audio and voiceover component, so the recipient knows exactly what can be reused and under what circumstances.
Decision checklist
Subject: After delivery, will I receive the original file for future edits? Sinh Vũ Handbook, sinhvu.com
Tick each item that applies or that you can already answer, then print or save as PDF to take with you.
If you have marked most of the signs above, this is the time to discuss in more detail. Sinh Vũ can help you review and propose a direction.
This article provides general information according to the documents in effect as of October 6, 2026. This is not legal advice and does not substitute for a lawyer's opinion for your specific case. Rights and obligations between Sinh Vũ and clients arise only according to the signed contract.
References
VideoUniversity: Do You Own The Copyright When You Shoot A Video; MovieMaker: Who Owns What, Raw Footage vs Completed Project; Lomnitzer Law Firm: Who Owns the Copyright. Practical experience: Sinh Vũ Studio. Note: the legal principles in this article are based on international practices. In Vietnam, copyright is regulated by the Intellectual Property Law and the Civil Code, and a lawyer's confirmation is needed before applying them to specific contracts.
Frequently asked questions
I paid for the entire production, why aren't they delivering the original files?
Ownership rights to works and the obligation to deliver source files are two different matters. If the contract only states the delivery of the finished version, the project files and raw materials are typically excluded from what is delivered. To obtain them, you need a delivery clause specifying each type of file; the production company may charge additional fees for this part.
I have the project file, but it opens with font errors, missing plugins, and cannot be edited. What should I do?
This is a common mistake when delivery lacks verification. Project files are unusable if they lack fonts, plugins, or linked materials. When negotiating, you should request that the delivery of linked materials, along with a list of required software and versions to open the files correctly, be clearly stated.
I have the original files, can I change the music or reuse the video as I wish?
Not automatically. Music, voiceovers, and materials available in the project files are still bound by the individual licenses of each component. Having the original files does not mean you can change the music or reuse it indefinitely. You should request that the licensing conditions for each component be included in the contract.
This article is for reference. The scope, pricing, and specific commitments of Sinh Vũ are detailed in the proposal and signed contract.