Copyright notation on images

Posted: Tue Aug 03, 2010 12:03 pm

If you are going to "ruin" your image with a copyright notation, please take the time to learn how to do it properly. Of course each countries requirements may be different, some may require a year, some may require nothing. I am so glad that painters that are now renowned did not resort to this amount of artistic defecation! Wink

Copyright Notation:

1) You must include the words Copyright, or the copyright symbol (A "C" inside a circle) ©. Or use Copr., (c) is also used but has no standing in law (I am verifying this).
2) You must include the Year that the image is first published. (This includes self publishing on the web)
3) You must include the copyright holders name.
4) Some countries require "All rights Reserved" to be added, in the USA this is now implied, and therefore no longer required.

Examples:

Copyright 2010 by Thomas Adams.
©2010 by Thomas Adams. All Rights Reserved.
Copr. 2008-2010 by Thomas Adams.

Since March 1, 1989 the copyright notation is not required (in the USA). A copyright is originated at the time the work is created. However, many people may choose to register their work which is rather inexpensive to do. One of the main benefits is that if you have to go to court, you have "records" that prove you are the copyright holder and can obtain statutory damages and legal fees. While you still hold the copyright, the registration of your work, provides certain benefits.

I could go on for a very long time, however, I suggest you talk to your lawyer. Laws in other countries will be different, and laws can change, just like camera settings.

For a modest fee ($35.00 USD) you can submit a DVD at http://www.copyright.gov/ (for the US) and register your works. It takes some time to get your paperwork, but it is easy, and relatively inexpensive.

Sources:
My attorney
http://www.copyright.gov/ (for the US)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Berne_Convention_for_the_Protection_of_Literary_and_Artistic_Works
http://www.templetons.com/brad/copymyths.html