Orphan Works: Now’s the Time to Make Yourself Heard as U.S. Copyright Office Considers Your Rights

Posted: November 08, 2012

[caption id="attachment_10976" align="alignleft" width="342"]© coramax - Fotolia.com[/caption]Rarely do individual copyright holders get the chance to let their thoughts be known on subjects that matter such as potential for income and protecting creative works. As a copyright holder, you have the opportunity to let the U.S. Copyright Office know your thoughts on its Orphan Works Bill. Whether you're an independent photographer/artist, writer, broadcaster, or an organization that employs photographers, writers, broadcasters let your voice be heard. Comments will be accepted through January 4, 2013.

While much has changed in the legal and business landscape since the last effort to produce a workable Orphan Works Bill, much remains the same. As a result, the U.S. Copyright Office is submitting a request via the Federal Register for comments on the current state of play for orphan works. Specifically, they want to hear from all parties regarding what has changed in the legal and business environment since their 2006 report. It is critical that those who generate creative works understand that the future of photography/writing/video/art as a viable revenue stream depends upon you making your voice heard on this matter.

While the various trade organizations will serve to collect voices, and you should participate, you should individually make your voice heard. Comments are due by Jan. 4. Effective now, you can submit comments here. You, as the photographer, are the rights holder. However, this doesn’t extend only to individuals. This also affects corporations that employ photographers.

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Biz Tip Provided by Tony Bynum, Owner: Tony Bynum Photography