Photo rights - digital and otherwise

I found that information about copyright wasn't on any photographers websites, but it was one of the first questions I asked when talking to photographers. The photographer we ended up booking doesn't even put watermarks on any of her photos and it is written in the contract they we have all right to the photographs when she gives them to us.

It's good that you're thinking to ask about it because most people forget and then it can lead to problems later. Just make sure you get any copyright info in writing on the contract!

Thanks Melissa I don't think this is an area where photographers are out to get anyone necessarily, but a lot of people sign contracts without fully understanding what they're agreeing to. I've checked with some friends on Facebook and a couple have mentioned finding their wedding pictures in places they didn't know about or didn't like. I'm all for supporting a photographer's business - after all, if they don't have portfolios, how can you choose a good one? Personally though, I'm not comfortable having my (potential) photos used for anything other than a portfolio. We'll see how it all works out!

Great researching Angel- I wasn't aware of the laws (should have researched a bit more before I signed!). I know we have full access to our photos, and no watermarks, but I'll have to check and see if there is any mention of commercial use in the contract. I'm not sure I would mind my photographer using/ selling our photos....as long as I look stellar

Thanks for the info! I'm sure you are a hero for the brides who haven't picked a photographer yet!

Thanks Samtam I've been doing some research and there was a Canadian copyright law update in 2012 that gives photographers automatic copyright, and personal clients (us) automatic reproduction rights, unless either party signs it away in the contract.

I'll be amending any contract to specify the lmitations of commercial use (portfolio onliny, I think).

I'll check out Whitney as well!

Angel

Our photographer gave us the rights and didn't even put a watermark on the photos. It's definitely something you can discuss with your photographer as you're interviewing them and make sure what you want is included in the contract. (Make sure that it's put in writing and not just a verbal agreement!) My photographer was Whitney Krutzfeldt from Vancouver and she was PHENOMENAL! I would definitely highly recommend her!

Annnnd I started doing some research: for those interested, here are 3 great articles:

http://blog.kunvay.com/why-you-dont-own-your-wedding-photos-how-to-own-your-wedding-day-copyrights-to-your-wedding-day-photos/

http://apracticalwedding.com/wedding-photography-contract/

http://capic.org/copyright-laws/

Angel