Congratulations on capturing those beautiful moments at the wedding! You put in the hard work and creativity to create something amazing that reflects your artistry and skill. However, this is not the end of the road, as you need to protect your work by learning about copyright infringement.
In a world full of intellectual property theft, it’s only natural for you to be concerned about copyright. If you’re a wedding photographer, it’s essential to know how to secure your work from venues/vendors using your images without permission or improperly. Maybe even add it to your monthly business checklist! Let’s discuss copyright law in plain terms and give tips on how to handle infringement.
What is Copyright Law?
Copyright law safeguards creations from unauthorized use by others. The most basic rule of copyright law is that the creator owns the rights to their artwork. This applies even if they’re hired to produce work (such as wedding photographs). When you create something, you’re granted exclusive rights to use that art in any way you want or to sell those rights to others. The person who commissioned the piece only owns it if there’s an agreement in writing or a contract stating so.
Why Does a Wedding Photographer Always Own the Copyright?
As a wedding photographer, you create artwork when you capture a perfect moment. You have the copyright in that work unless you assign it to someone else explicitly. You’re the one who decided how to compose the photograph, sourced and purchased the equipment, and used your artistic eye and technical knowledge to create a beautiful image. Because the copyright is exclusively yours, when anyone else uses or copies your work without permission, that’s copyright infringement.
How to Handle Copyright Infringement
Keep in mind that before handling copyright infringement, you need to prove that it has occurred. Image search engines like Google Reverse Image Search are useful for this purpose. Once you’ve confirmed that your work has been used unauthorizedly, send a copyright infringement letter to the venue or vendor.
Keep your letter professional and succinct. Let them know that you have evidence of copyright infringement and that you would like them to stop using your photo immediately. If you concede, use the situation as an opportunity to promote your business. Offer to sell them the right to use your image with a watermark or to license it for future use.
What Are Your Legal Remedies for Copyright Infringement?
If the venue or vendor does not admit fraud, you can file a DMCA takedown notice. This is a formal complaint procedure that requests the removal of plagiarized material online. You’ll need to submit specific documents that attest to copyright ownership, including photo ownership, registration documents, and any other relevant information. This is a reasonably standard procedure, and online platforms take it seriously.
Of course, you always have the option to contact your lawyer and get professional advice on the matter.
Undoubtedly, as a wedding photographer, your work is your lifeblood. So it’s only natural to worry about copyright infringement. Remember that you own your artwork, and it’s not okay for anyone to use it without your permission. Always ensure you have the legal right to your images and register your copyrighted works. In cases of copyright infringement, be ready to address your problem professionally, positively, and adequately. By taking these necessary precautions, you will be well-protected in the case of any infringement. So, here’s to creating and capturing beautiful moments knowing your livelihood is secure. Happy photographing!
