Copyright? What’s that then?

It’s important, I think, to explain yourself and your actions sometimes.  Some people, without knowing better, can assume certain things in life and it can cause problems.  I’m not pointing fingers at all but it can be hard sometimes to put yourself in other people’s shoes and understand why they say what they say, or do what they do.

I’m referring, as the title will suggest, to Copyright.  More specifically, Copyright infringement.  Copyright infringement, as a term, is bandied around a lot.  More so than ever with the advent of the Internet and as such, the rise and rise of the so-called ‘Social Networking Site’ like Facebook and MySpace.
Here’s a good few points made by Robert Whetton, a photographer I know.  He originally posted this on his MySpace page in answer to questions put to him by a band who took some photos from his MySpace page without asking:
Q: Hey, your photos look really good, is it OK for me to use them in my advertising?

A: Sure, but they will have to be paid for, I need to know how and where they will be used so I can give you a price for usage.

Q: Is it OK if I use your photographs for my MySpace Profile?

A: Absolutely, just grab them from here and you can use them as they are, if you want any without the watermark on, I don’t charge a lot for supplying without.

Q: Is it OK to use that picture for use on a poster then?

A: No, any photos that you want to use to advertise need to be paid for.

Q: We’re just starting out and don’t have a lot of money, can we get these photos for free?

A: Sorry, I’m not a charity, I have a family and mouths to feed. My equipment is also expensive and has a limited life cycle.  Whilst I will take time out to come and take photos for you and not charge, usage of the photos for anything other than your profile will be chargeable.

Q: Well Photographer X is letting me have all their photos for nothing.

A: Feel free to use their photos.

There’s also a handy link here explaining Copyright.

by Matt

Show Hide 1 comment

September 14, 2008 - 11:54 am

Bobby Earle - Great job on educating clients on copyright issues! Way to go :)

Bobby

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