Copyright Law

Copyrights and Release

Explanation of Copyright Law:

The copyright Act of 1976 protects authors of original works from unauthorized duplication by imposing damages and/or criminal penalties on violators. These penalties are now set at $100,000 per episode.

If we scan, copy and reprint a copyrighted photo, both Graphic Impressions and the customer can be liable for copyright infringement.

The negative or digital file in photography is considered the original work. Prints are derivative works & protected by the copyright law. Original works can also be but are not limited to: graphic design elements, paintings, music, movies, books, magazines and blueprints.

It is also illegal to duplicate certain restricted materials that include paper currency, treasury notes, stock certificates, bonds, money orders, postage stamps, checks, passports, driver licenses, ID cards, birth certificates, and diplomas.

Although most professional work has a copyright symbol, the word copyright, a date and/or proof mark or the studio/photographer's name, none of these are necessary on the work to indicate copyright protection.

Graphic Impressions Copyright Policy:

Graphic Impressions will not reproduce a photograph that is signed or stamped by a professional photographer or studio, without a signed copyright release.

Nor will we reproduce a photograph that appears to have been taken by a professional photographer or studio and has no identifying marks on its front or back, without a signed copyright release.

Getting A Photo Release:

Photographers or studios may be willing to provide you with a release for your pictures, if you contact them. Often their name & telephone number is on the back of the photo.

If the photograph was taken in a chain store or chain studio, begin by contacting their local store/studio. If done by a studio, contact that studio via phone for written permission to reproduce the image.

Phone: (715)856-5627 or Toll Free (888)856-5164

Email:

brian@giphoto.com

ann@giphoto.com

For Additional questions concerning Copyright feel free to call us.

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