Promotional Superman Image

Gregorius · Forum Member Joined: Jul 02, 2006 Posts: 18

I have very nearly finalized an M3-based Superman model. As soon as I figure out how to export my morphed figure into INJ/REM poses, I'm going to put a stripped-down version up for sale on PoserPros.

I say "stripped-down" because, to prevent copyright violation, I'm not going to sell anything that would allow the user to make Superman specifically. No costume, no hair. Just the morphed head and body.

The idea is that Superman is sort of the archtypical superhero, with all of the features typically associated with the genre (i.e. strong chin, large jaw, heavy brow, straight nose, etc.). Therefore, modeling a Poser character after him produces a figure that can be used as a basis for any superhero-type character, original or otherwise.

However, I do hope to indicate in the product description that the figure was modeled after Superman in order to acheive such a result (in fact, the name of the figure will most likely be "Clark for M3"), and I would very much like to use an image of my figure in full Superman garb as a demo pic to show what the figure can be used for with the proper add-on freebies. Can anyone tell me if DC Comics would have a problem with this, even if I include a disclaimer of some sort? On one hand, it could be interpreted as just fanart. On the other hand, it could be interpreted as using a DC trademark to promote a commercial product. Does anyone know for sure about this?

Aremis · Posted: Fri Jul 14, 2006 5:19 am Post subject:

Yes, even resemblance, if for profit, will bring down the wrath of Gods on you. Its a very tricky situation, and you need to tread very carefully. PoserPros/Daz3D, and the others wont allow the publicity picture to be used depicting Superman, or any other copyright material of any kind. I would even stear away from using textures with the same color scheme, and faking the name like "Super-Duper Man", because its still enough to get negative attention.

I would stick with standard muscle type men images for publicity officially. But then, in private forums, here on Animotions ect, you can offer further samples using the idea that you have, to show how your "Clark" character would look as a Superman figure.
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DTHUREGRIF · Site Admin Joined: Jun 05, 2001 Posts: 462

Why are you not going to sell it here?

Gregorius · Forum Member Joined: Jul 02, 2006 Posts: 18

Thanks for the info, Aremis. The last thing I need is to have DC ticked off at me, considering I hope to approach them someday soon about licensing the rights to publish a Superman novel I'm currently writing. I think I'll just use a generic superhero for the demo image(s).

DTHUREGRIF, it didn't occur to me that I could sell it here as well, but I like the idea! While we're on the subject, would anyone here be willing to walk me through exporting my character into INJ/REM poses? I really don't know where to begin.

palmers · Forum Member Joined: Jun 07, 2002 Posts: 379

Not wishing to rain on anything, Gregorius, but if you're investing any time or effort in writing your Superman novel - and I don't think you could be writing it without - you really need to be talking to DC first. There's a very high probability that they'll turn you down, and then you'll have wasted your time.

IMP.
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