Discussion:
What is the name of your state? NC
Hi I am a digital photographer. Right now I take pictures mostly of landscapes and waterfalls. Most are in the National Park lands, some aren't.
I would like to sell prints of some of my pictures, i.e. 8x10's and so on. Is there any law preventing that? Is it Legal? I would assume that landforms are not copyrighted, but because they are on federal land, does it matter? Or if not on federal land?
Also pictures of things like the Hatteras Lighthouse, which is another national park type of thing. Is it ok to photograph these things and sell the pictures?
Also can if it is ok, can I copy right my pictures of these things?
Do I need to consult with an atty for the answers to these? and if so can you point me to one? thanks..t
Answer:
"I would like to sell prints of some of my pictures, i.e. 8x10's and so on. Is there any law preventing that?"
No.
"Is it Legal?"
Yes
"I would assume that landforms are not copyrighted"
True.
"but because they are on federal land, does it matter? Or if not on federal land?"
Nope and nope. Besides, the federal land belongs to all of us anyway.
"Also pictures of things like the Hatteras Lighthouse, which is another national park type of thing. Is it ok to photograph these things and sell the pictures?"
Yes. There is no limitation on photographs of public land, and no limitations on photographs of private land and buildings as long as said private land and buildings are photographed from a public vantage point. The only limitation might be if, say, a trademarked logo or something appeared prominately in the picture, then that might be another story...
"Also can if it is ok, can I copy right my pictures of these things?"
You get a copyright automatically when you take the photo, but you may wish to register the copyright for extra protection.
"Do I need to consult with an atty for the answers to these?"
If you are the really paranoid type you might want to. However, unless the photos you are taking have logos in them, I wouldn't worry about it.
Answer:
I was paranoid, because am totally new to this.
Thank you so much for your detailed and quick response and your time...t