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Copyright Information

So, is my photograph protected by copyright?

A photograph is copyright protected from the moment it is created. A copyright gives its owner the right to copy, distribute, publicly display or create derivative works from the original work. A copyright also gives its owner the right to license those rights to others. This means that even if you purchase a print or digital file from your photographer, you still need to talk to them about making reproductions from that item.

Some interesting facts about copyrights:

  • Under the Federal Copyright Act of 1976, photographs are protected by copyright from the moment of creation.
  • The current copyright term is the life of the creator – in this case, the photographer, plus an additional 70 years.
  • Purchasing a print or digital file from your photographer does not mean you have purchased the copyright.
  • Unless you have permission from the photographer, you can’t copy, distribute, publicly display, or create derivative works from photographs.

Copyright infringements can result in civil and criminal penalties. By checking that you “own the copyright for these photo(s) or I am authorized by the owner to make a photo-to-canvas reproduction” you are agreeing to indemnify Memory Portraits, it’s associates and owners, against any claims by third parties or yourself in relation to the use of any and all materials submitted.

Professional photographers will probably have their own release forms for you to use, but if not, then we suggest you use the form that follows.

Download Release

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If you are interested in commissioning a Memory Portrait, please contact us today. We’d love to help you create a beautiful and memorable tribute that will last a lifetime.

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