The U.S. Government defines a legal copyright as
"A form of protection provided by the laws of the United States for "original works of authorship", including literary, dramatic, musical, architectural, cartographic, choreographic, pantomimic, pictorial, graphic, sculptural, and audiovisual creations. "Copyright" literally means the right to copy but has come to mean that body of exclusive rights granted by law to copyright owners for protection of their work. Copyright protection does not extend to any idea, procedure, process, system, title, principle, or discovery. Similarly, names, titles, short phrases, slogans, familiar symbols, mere variations of typographic ornamentation, lettering, coloring, and listings of contents or ingredients are not subject to copyright.” (https://www.copyright.gov/help/faq/definitions.html)
Basically that means that, as the photographer, what I author or create, I own and I have the legal right to control any reproductions of my work, including the right to receive monies or payment for use of any reproduction of my work. Photographers and other artist have the sole right to copy, distribute, sell, and publish photos in any form. And that copyrighted material cannot be reproduced or copyrighted without the permission of that photographer or artist.
Some FAQs people ask about Copyright when it pertains to wedding and portrait photography:
All images, text and content on this site are the property and held under contract of Woodstock, VT wedding and portrait photographer Sally Carpenter. Every item on this website is protected by United States Copyright Law and may not be copied or used without the express permission of Sally Carpenter
Written permission of Sally Carpenter is required before any text, content or images may be downloaded or reproduced in any way for editorial, commercial or personal usage. Please contact me directly if you would like to purchase or use the images found of this website. We will discuss appropriate compensation, payment terms, and citations for usage.
Written permission of Sally Carpenter is required before any content can be used by anyone for any purpose.
You can read more information on Copyright in the US:
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