production photo + grid method = copyright infringement?

[AgentOrange]

So I'm doing a reproduction painting of Boris Karloff's Mummy for a huge classic horror film buff.

I've come to wonder tho....

Is this more than just a friendly gesture, could I be stepping on some studios property? Am I taking something from the photographer? From Karloff himself?

I'm doing it for NO PAY. I'd like to fully state that.

I assume since I'm not getting paid, that something like this is "ok". Furthermore, I'm not using any parts of the original (or internet supplied anyway) image within the final product. I am, however, using the grid method (1:1) and that makes it a near copy.

Am I in the wrong?
If I were getting paid, would I be in an actionable position?
Does anyone still use the grid method, and is it respectable?
Do I sign it when I'm done?

Thanks,
AO

[dpaint]

Those frankenstein images are a trademarked for Universal Studios, now maybe it has lapsed into public domain but I kinda doubt it.
Copyright infringement occurs when you sell or redistribute the work as your own. If you make a painting of a famous photo for a friend and no money changes hands and nobody plans to reproduce the image for sale then IMO there is no infringement.

[AgentOrange]

Those frankenstein images are a trademarked for Universal Studios, now maybe it has lapsed into public domain but I kinda doubt it.
Copyright infringement occurs when you sell or redistribute the work as your own. If you make a painting of a famous photo for a friend and no money changes hands and nobody plans to reproduce the image for sale then IMO there is no infringement.

This is the case, thank you so much for the speedy reply!


AO