Copyright to photos....... - DPChallenge Forums

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 50mm f/1.4G

02/22/2006 11:30:16 AM · #1

This is just a question.... Is putting a Water mark or your name on a Photo that you have take mean that it is Copyrighted???? If not....What are some round about ways in doing that? Im kinda Interested in the water marking and making my own design as well.... any ideas or Suggestions.... on the Ol'

Anders

Nikon D300

02/22/2006 11:35:25 AM · #2

its my understanding (although i may be wrong) that you own the copyright to a photo as soon as you take it, whether this is made visible on the actual photo or not. i believe that there is an option in editing programs to add a digital watermark to an image (which is not visible when viewing the photo on its own), but i have never tried.

theSaj

Canon EOS-20D

Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM

02/22/2006 11:55:40 AM · #3

You have copyright to any work you make for yourself. However, I believe what you are speaking of is a "Registered Copyright". And for that, you must pay a processing fee with the copyright office.

You are still protected regardless, however, a registered copyright helps by defining a point of recorded creation and title. Thus, if infringed you've got compelling evidence for the courts.

Furthermore, though I may not be correct on this: with a non-registered copyright you can demand that said offender cease and desist, you may have to go to court to get such right proved and enacted. However, with a registered copyright, not only can you demand said offender cease and desist, you can collect damages from the profits and proceeds said offender garnered in violation of your copyright. As it was registered it was known and recorded so the offense is deliberate.

Though, I am not a U.S. laywer so that is merely my understanding based on what I've read.

Spork99

Canon EOS M6 Mk II

Canon EF-M 22mm STM Lens

02/22/2006 11:55:45 AM · #4

It's true that your work is copyrighted as soon as you take it, but you really should register them with the government. That makes it much easier to prove infringement and if you have to sue, the infringing party is also liable for all court costs/legal fees.

Just possessing the original file is not necessarily enough to prove ownership.

Nikon AF Zoom-Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.0-5.6G

02/22/2006 12:38:53 PM · #5

Thank you Thank you!!! im actually having a web site designed... same Copyright apply right...i can just post it on the web site an im fine right...?

Message edited by author 2006-02-22 12:39:13.

'Pong

Nikon D70

02/22/2006 12:44:05 PM · #6

In general, as soon as you press the shutter, you automatically own the right to copy, publicise and distribute the photography. And the now, the copyrights will be protected until 70 years after its creator dies. You don't need to register to any organisation. However, you can tag © with your name and year on your image. It's just your choice.

About the infringement, it's hard to say in the digital world. To me, I don't mind people using my images for their own purpose with my credit on ,i.e., not commercial use without permission and licensing agreement. That's where the mark comes in handy.

I'm based in Sydney, Australia. I'd recommend reading Copyrights Council Australia

kc kong

Panasonic DMC-FZ20

02/22/2006 12:49:59 PM · #7

I've been thinking about posting images on my own website as well. An issue is bandwidth theft - where people hotlink to your images on your website so that it displays on theirs. These guys not only use your images but your bandwidth as well.

The other issue I've been trying to figure out is whether burnt-in watermarks can be removed. Or are there certain settings that make it more difficult to remove the watermark? eg embossing, higher opacity ...?

02/22/2006 01:06:47 PM · #8

I have heard Warter marking are hard to get rid of.....