We did tape the presentations so that the club could have an archive of the event and volunteer staff could see what they missed while working, but we did not originally intend to sell them. Although, because of the number of people that have inquired, we may have to revisit this topic. But, there are multiple problems with video sales. First of all, they don't generate very much revenue. Many, many clubs have been stuck with a lot of leftover, unpurchased tapes and DVD's and when they are sold, you only make a few bucks on each one. So, the risk versus reward is not very good.
Additionally, I would hate to do something that would affect attendee sales. There is a faction that argues, why would anyone come to the show if they can later buy the video for less than it would cost to attend. We even considered trying to upload the video to be given away for free on the internet, but discounted it largely on the idea that it would hurt future shows.
And finally, you should have to get permission from the speakers in the form of a release. Now, I have been taped numerous times and have seen those tapes sold, but no one ever asked me for my permission to do so. If I wanted to push the issue, I believe I would have a case. But, it is more than the legal issues. It is a matter of being polite to your speakers. They take a lot of time away from work and family to attend and while they are compensated modestly, I would not want to take advantage of them either.
I will surely bring this up at our next board meeting, but I am unsure of what the decision would be and where I stand on the issue.
