How to Copyright Digital Photos

The copyright process allows inventors, artists, and other individuals to protect their product from use by others without their consent. A photographer who copyrights his digital photos can sell his product, display it on his website and distribute it as he wishes. Without this copyright, however, an artist has no recourse if someone copies his or her photos for their own use. Understanding the copyright process helps protect your work while ensuring that you control the process of dissemination.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Learn the limitations of copyrights under United States law. A copyright on digital photos prevents the distribution or sale of the photo without the permission of the owner. A copyright-protected photo can be used as part of a school project or a non-profit educational campaign under fair use rules.

2. Gain an appreciation for the legal rights of copyright holders. Your digital photos can be displayed, adapted or reproduced as you wish as long as their use does not infringe the rights of others. Photographers can also transfer their digital photo rights upon death or assign the copyright with the force of law on their side.

3. Gather the appropriate forms for your copyright application. The U.S. Copyright Office requires the use of Form VA for digital photos and other visual arts projects (see Resources below).

4. Submit the correct number of digital photo samples to the U.S. Copyright Office to complete your application. An unpublished photo or a published photo in a collection requires one sample. A single published photo requires two copies of the latest version of the photo.

5. Ask business associates, colleagues, and friends to review your application before submitting it for consideration. The application features a small number of questions but the application fees can add up from frequent submissions. Editorial review can help clear up small clerical errors and ensure a smooth process on the agency's end.

Tips & Warnings

• Register your copyright with the U.S. Copyright Office to gain full legal protection. Copyrights technically originate from the material expression of intellect and do not require registration. However, registration ensures legal rights and a document trail in case of copyright infringement.
• Make yourself aware of the copyright process straight from the source. The U.S. Copyright Office website features the exact process of applying for a copyright. Any missed steps ensures that your copyright will not be completed.

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