COPYRIGHT

        Copyright on the Internet, is an interesting issue.   By stating that an image or work is " copyrighted ", should indicate that it should not be copied and/or credited as another person's work, especially for the purpose of financial gain.   However, putting an image on the Internet, is in fact providing people with an unfettered opportunity to download, copy, and print to one's heart's content.

        It is said that, " copying is the highest form of flattery ".   Indeed, a more sincere form of praise is given, when the originator of the work is given credit for it - as is the accepted practice in universities and other places of education, worldwide.   A single copy of each work may be made, so long as, an appropriate written credit is made to the originating artist, and remains attached to the copy.

        Copyright may be proven before a Justice.   The originating artist photographs and records detail of the original work, including amongst other things, the date, context, and place/s of manufacture.   The photographs and records are enclosed in a self addressed envelope and placed in the mail.   When the sealed and postmarked envelope is returned to the artist, it is not opened.   Only a Justice may break the seals. The envelope is placed in a safety deposit box until such time that it may be required.

        In America - the artist automatically owns copyright; hence the use of the universal symbol, "©" after the artists name.   Generally,when selling a work under American law, say with a price tag of $1000, and the purchasing client also wants to buy the copyright, then double that amount ($2000) is usually charged (more, should the client be a wealthy company intending to make a lot of money in using the image).   Contracts are normally entered into, upon sale and/or commission of a work in any event, which also ensures that the physical integrity of the original work, be maintained.

        In England, copyright automatically belongs to the originating artist, unless the work is commissioned, where the price of copyright should be included in the cost of the work.   The commissioning client will automatically maintain copyright under English law unless contracted otherwise, amongst other things, to permit an artist reasonable publicity, where contracts would also ensure that the client maintains the physical integrity of the original work.   Contracts may also allow for a choice of law.