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What is copyright? The exclusive
right to make, distribute copies of, publicly display or publish a photograph.
When are photographs copyrighted? As soon as they are created by the
photographer.
Who owns the copyright to a photograph? The photographer who created it.
What is copyright infringement? Copying a photograph or image without written
permission of the copyright owner. This includes copying using a photocopier, a
photographic copy, a digital copy stand or copy station, or scanning into a computer.
If I buy a photograph, don't I have the right to copy it? Absolutely
not! Copyright can only be transferred in writing by the owner, the
photographer. The sale of a print does not include the copyright to that
image. Simply stated, someone who purchases a professional photograph is in much the
same position as someone who buys a book. They own the physical book, but they do
not own the copyright, and they do not have the right to have additional copies made.
Do photographs have to be marked with a copyright , ©, notice to be protected?
No mark is required anywhere on the print. If it looks professionally done, and is,
under the law it is copyrighted.
How long does copyright last? Protection from copying lasts the life of the
photographer plus 70 years.
What kind of penalty can result from illegal copying? Court settlements
have ranged from $10,000 to $150,000.
If you would like more information
about copyright visit this site. http://www.whatiscopyright.org
The information post on the
site is plain language that is easy to understand.
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