Copyright

Hello......

As others have said, I am not a lawyer, but I would like to interject my
observations and opnions here. I am an unabashed Trekkie (no applause,
please) and have attended frequent SciFi/Star Trek conventions. At almost
every one of these functions, there is a very explicit announcement made,
both in the convention facilities, and on any pre-event publicity or event
programs, that the taking of photographs or videotaping is forbidden while
the visiting star is speaking. In fact, there is usually some big burly guy
standing at the door as you come in, ready to take any photographic
equipment away from you. This is part of the contractual agreement that the
event staff have made with the celebrities involved.

Part of this has to do with economics, rather than legalities. (Basically
meaning that if there's any money to be made from the selling of photos
taken at the event, then the star or the event promoter is reserving the
right to be the one who does so.) I have been to conventions where, when it
comes time for the celebrities to sit and sign gazillions of autographs for
the adoring public, they will only sign picures that they have brought with
them. (As opposed to pictures, books, or other items that the attendees have
brought with them or purchased at the event.) However, I have also
encountered some very nice people who will be very nice about allowing their
picture to be taken as they pose with a guest/fan.

Any time you exhibit your work in such a forum, you run the risk of someone
taking a picture of it and making money off of it. This works pretty much
the same for any graphics that I design for the various websites that I work
on. If I don't want people "borrowing" my stuff, then I have to take certain
steps to ensure that this doesn't happen. In the case of the man in
question, about the only way he can safeguard his "rights" would be to make
sure that no one takes any pictures. Yes, it's always nice if a photographer
gives credit where it's due, but you can't be sure that will happen.

Anyway, that's my two cents' worth,
Dusty

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