How to Copyright Your Photos

Photography is an art form like any other. Photos taken by any photographer are considered intellectual property and therefore protected by copyright as soon as they are taken. There is no legal requirement to register your photographs with the copyright office, but just like art, music, writing or any other form of intellectual property, registering with the US Copyright Office provides a measure of protection if you should need legal proof of creation. Learn the steps you should take to register your photographic copyrights.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

1. Visit the United States Copyright Office online and download the PDF document "Copyright Basics" under the "About Copyright" section. While you do not have to download this document to obtain a copyright, it offers useful information.

2. Fill out form CO. Normally, for photographs, you would fill out form VA, but the US Copyright Office has introduced a new form that encompasses all types of copyright protection. You can still fill out a VA form, but CO forms are processed faster. Once you fill out a CO form, you will not need to complete any other forms. The form is available at the US Copyright Office website under "Publications" and "Forms."

3. Fill out the copyright form, print it and mail it, along with required copies of the work in question. Individual instructions for copies of each protected work are detailed on the US Copyright website. Be sure to submit the required copies to ensure complete protection.

4. Mail your completed form along with the current registration fee to the address listed on the US Copyright Office website. You will be notified by mail when your copyright has been registered.

Resources

• US Copyright Office