There's no doubt that it's easier to register your photographs before you publish them. But if you didn't get it done then, it's better late than never to register your published images. The good news is that it's more convenient and cheaper than ever to register your photographs after they have been published. Pursuant to a recent change in copyright law, you now can register a group of published images on one form. The only requirements are that the photos must have been published in the same year, made by the same photographer and have the same copyright claimant. This should fit the profile of most photographers and their work. Another beneficial change in the law is that group registration of published images currently requires only one "deposit" or copy of the image. Previously, you had to submit two of the actual published copies. Now you can register your published images on one form, with only one deposit, one application and one filing fee, as long as they meet the above requirements. Specific instructions on how to prepare your registration forms for published photographs are available from the Picture Archive Council of America at http://www.pacaoffice.org/copyright.html in "The Importance of Copyright Registration" You no longer have an excuse. Go to the dentist, change the oil in your car, and register your images, both unpublished and published. It's better late than never. Take my advice; get professional help. PhotoAttorney Copyright 2005 Carolyn E. Wright All Rights Reserved |
