Many people do not understand copyright law with respect to photos. While many have some understanding that it can be illegal to reproduce movies, recorded music, software, etc., they seem to be under the impression that photos are available for anyone to use for any purpose, and the Internet facilitates this kind of illegal use.
In the United States, copyright to a photo belongs to the photographer, from the instant it was taken, the only exception being photos taken under conditions of work for hire. A photographer may transfer the copyright to someone else or license usage of a photo under certain specific terms. However, no one should ever assume that they have the right to use someone else's photo unless they have clear instructions from the copyright holder that this is okay, or unless their usage of the photo falls under fair use.
In the United States, copyright to a photo belongs to the photographer, from the instant it was taken, the only exception being photos taken under conditions of work for hire. A photographer may transfer the copyright to someone else or license usage of a photo under certain specific terms. However, no one should ever assume that they have the right to use someone else's photo unless they have clear instructions from the copyright holder that this is okay, or unless their usage of the photo falls under fair use.
Here is a useful blog article that serves as a kind of primer on copyright: How Small Businesses Can Avoid Photography Copyright Infringement
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