Digital Cameras

COPYRIGHT. The law states that you own the rights to your picture, not the person who "buys" it. This was emphasized by the Tasini decision in the Courts in 1999. Your copyright stays with you, unless you sign something to the contrary at the time of any transaction for "renting" or "licensing" your image. Place the copyright symbol on all of your work; it costs you nothing to do this - it's a gift from your government. Only if you register your picture (with the Library of Congress) will it cost $45 (at this writing).

MODEL RELEASES. Have you shackled yourself with the belief that you have to have a 'model release' for recognizable people or buildings in public? Not so, -it's your First Amendment right not to have to get a model release if your picture is used for informing and educating the public. We live in a free society and our constitution early recognized that the free exchange of information was a right we should all enjoy. However, if you are a service photographer (industrial, architecture, fashion, advertising, etc.) and you plan to use your pictures for advertising, promotion, endorsement, etc., or other commercial and trade purposes, then yes, you will need a model release.

The only exception for editorial use, is where the picture might be used in a sensitive area such as mental health, sex, or in a compromising, unfair situation which could embarrass someone. Your book or magazine editor, publisher, or web designer will advise you if these exceptions come into play when the picture is considered for publication.

PUBLIC DOMAIN PHOTOS. These photos from government agencies (NASA, Dept. Of Agriculture, FSA, etc.) are free. You or your parents paid for them with your tax dollars. They can be used for many purposes: in books, articles, when giving lectures, supplying photobuyers.

POSTAL SERVICE. Since correspondence lost or mislaid by a fallible postal worker has a way of being remembered and talked about, let's admit that errors can happen in any industry, and then ask, "What's good about the Post Office?" There are billions of pieces of mail handled yearly, flawlessly. Our postage system is cheaper than in any other comparable industrialized nation.

TAX-FREE E-MAIL. Hold your breath. E-mail purchases in most states are tax-free. Your federal government has not (yet) interfered. Let's face it, in some countries, e-mail is not only taxed, but it is also censored.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - WHAT ARE YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS? Here's a report that will answer all your questions about how to survive the legal (and illegal) pitfalls of operating an Internet Business. HTML version: Click Here!

Rohn Engh, veteran stock photographer and best-selling author of "Sell & ReSell Your Photos" and "sellphotos.com," has helped scores of photographers launch their careers. For access to great information on making money from pictures you like to take, and to receive this free report: "8 Steps to Publishing Photos," visit his website at PhotoSource International or call 800 624-0266.