Just thought I'd share this with the rest of you, since a lot of people really don't know their rights as a photographer, like myself a while back.


It might be helpful, or it might not be. But do keep in mind, this is more of a guide, and not a legal hand book. If you really want to know the laws, you'll have to look up your local laws and see what it says.



http://www.kantor.com/blog/Legal-Rig...tographers.pdf


Know your rights!

 

great information!

i have long been concerned with wether or not i need to add a digital watermark to all my pics that i post online....

anyone have any insight on that?

 

i think thats more of a personal preference. If you intend on selling your work, but would still like people to see it, you can put a water mark on it and then if a person decides they would like a copy for whatever reason and are willing to pay you for it, you then send them a copy without the mark.

and if its a picture that you don't care if someone uses it or not, then no water mark is needed.


so its all a question of, do you want random people using your work?

 

I've seen that before...hmmm the date was changed.

Anyway do not take this as gospel. This info isn't 100% true and legal.

If I were you I'd check local laws before or if in doubt.

A good rule to follow when approached by law enforcement is to obey now and grieve later.

 

atomicmecha gave you a good answer, and i'll add some additional info from a business perspective. Having certain identifying information as your watermark affords you additional protection under 1202(c) of the Digital Milllenium Copyright Act (DMCA). If someone were to use your photo without your permission, and they removed the identifying information to do so, you have the right to additional recoveries if you decide pursue it legally.