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Home » Other Tips » Common Web Design Problems » Music on websites

Music on Website

Yes, I know this is totally my opinion so you are free to disagree with it as you see fit.  But I feel that music and sound doesn't belong on 99% of websites out there.   If you're promoting a band, yes you probably should have music playing.  But for most sites it's just annoying. 

I hear you arguing that using the proper music can set a mood that you want while your visitors are looking through your portfolio.  What about those that are just there to look at your photographs, not to listen to your selection of music?  What about people like me that keep their speakers off while browsing the web just so they don't have to listen to music and other sounds on websites?

And the biggest problem, copyright violations.  As a photographer you should be very aware of the damaging effects of copyright violations.  In order to have music on your website, you must first have permission.  Yes, there are several performers that will allow you to use their music on your website.  No, it's not going to come from a CD you buy at Best Buy.  If you plan on using music that is anywhere close to mainstream, aside from classical, you will probably have to pay licensing fees. 

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