How to Embed Copyrights Into Photographs
With the increase in the number of image-sharing sites like Flickr and Picasa, photographers can now distribute their work to a world-wide audience. Internet users can also download these images for use in presentations, websites, blogs and print materials. By embedding a digital copyright into their images, photographers can help ensure they receive credit and have legal recourse when their photos are used by third parties without permission.
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Instructions
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1
Select the photos you wish to copyright and, if needed, scan them into digital files.
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Open the file in your photo-editing software package and open the layers palette. For this tutorial, Photoshop CS4 has been used.
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Using the text tool, create your digital copyright text. Include the copyright symbol (either (c) or ©), your name and, if desired, the copyright year. Choose a text color that contrasts with the image underneath.
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4
Using the layers palette, lower the opacity of the copyright layer to 10 to 30 percent. Adjust the number based on the individual image and the size of the copyright text.
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5
To create a subtle watermark, position the copyright smaller and toward the edge of the image. This makes the image usable while maintaining your copyright.
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To create a more forceful watermark, make the mark larger and position it in the center of the image. This makes the image unusable without the copyright.
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Save your file to a new name and upload your image to the photo- or file-sharing site of your choice.
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Tips & Warnings
A large, central watermark copyright is useful when sending sample photos or contact sheets. It prevents the use or printing of the image without the copyright. The final purchased image can then be delivered without the watermark.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit W Gridley
