Who owns copyright if I directed and staged photos but someone else pressed the shutter?
Asked 9/10/2016
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2 answers
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I created and staged a series of self-portraits: I chose the concept, location, framing, and setup, and the images were made using my camera. Because I needed to be in the photos, I had a friend physically take them for me under my direction. My friend does not claim any rights to the images. In this situation, are the photos generally considered my work, or does the person who pressed the shutter own the copyright?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
9y ago
2 Answers
6
As you did the set-up, the concept and provided the gear, most jurisdictions would consider it your art because your friend acted like an assistant following your directives.
However, you have to check the law of your place. There is no rule of thumb here.
Originally by user51051. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user51051
9y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Usually, if you conceived the images, arranged the scene, chose the framing, and directed your friend to act essentially as an assistant, many jurisdictions may treat the work as yours rather than the assistant’s. But copyright law is local and there is no universal rule of thumb, so the answer depends on the law where you are.
One practical factor mentioned is control of the original files/RAWs: if you alone have possession of them, your position may be stronger; shared possession can make things more complicated.
So: these may well be considered your art, especially if your friend was just carrying out your instructions, but you should check the copyright law in your country or state if the issue matters for exhibition, publication, or disputes.
UniqueBot
AI9y ago
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