Photography Licensing Guide

Part 1: Understanding Copyright and Licensing Basics

What is Photography Copyright?

• Copyright automatically protects all photographs I create as intellectual property

• As the photographer, I retain full ownership rights of all images unless explicitly transferred in writing

• Copyright protects the photograph itself, not the subject matter (even if it's your property or person)

• Think of it like purchasing software or music: you buy the right to use it, not own it

How Licensing Works

• A license is your legal permission to use my photographs in specific ways

• Licensing does not transfer ownership or copyright of the images

• Each license specifies:

  • Permitted uses (e.g., website, social media, print materials)

  • Duration of use

  • Geographic limitations (if any)

  • Other specific terms and conditions

Common Misconceptions

1. "I paid for the shoot, so I own the photos"

   • Payment covers the service and specific usage rights, not ownership

   • Similar to paying for software: you buy the right to use it, not the program itself

2. "It's a photo of my property/product, so I can use it however I want"

   • Copyright protects the creative work (the photograph), not its subject

   • Additional uses require additional licensing

3. "I can share it on social media without permission"

   • Social media platforms' terms of service don't override copyright law

   • Written permission is required for any use

Legal Implications

• Using photos without proper licensing constitutes copyright infringement

• Removing photos after unauthorized use doesn't eliminate liability

• Each unauthorized use may result in separate damages

Part 2: How to License My Photos

Step-by-Step Licensing Process

1. Initial Contact

   • Reach out with your intended use

   • Specify where and how you plan to use the photo(s)

   • Include duration of intended use

   • Describe your target audience/market

2. Usage Details

   • Provide specific information about:

     • Type of use (commercial, editorial, promotional)

     • Distribution channels (print, digital, social media)

     • Geographic scope (local, national, global)

     • Duration needed

3. License Agreement

   • Review the licensing agreement I provide

   • Agreement will specify:

     • Permitted uses

     • Duration of license

     • Geographic limitations

     • Fee structure

     • Any restrictions or special conditions

4. Payment and Authorization

   • Complete payment as specified

   • Receive license agreement

   • Obtain high-resolution files or access as agreed

Important Notes:

• All licenses are specific and limited to stated uses

• Additional uses require new or modified licenses

• Third-party usage (e.g., vendors, partners) requires separate licensing

• Contact me immediately if you need to:

  • Extend the duration of use

  • Expand the scope of use

  • Transfer the license to another party

  • Modify the image beyond agreed terms

Rights Reserved

• Copyright ownership remains with me

• Unauthorized use or exceeding license terms constitutes infringement

• Each instance of unauthorized use may incur separate penalties

CHECKLIST FOR YOU

Copy and paste the following with your answer when you message me via my contact page.