Barre Loc: Fairfax Co, VA

I've been told that I should watermark my photos to protect from copiers. I'm considering selling some of my works at some photo shows, but have already shared many of my works without protections. I've heard that there are some watermarks that only show up when being printed. This is what I'd prefer. Any thoughts?

13 Loc: I am only responsible to what I say..not what

If it was me...I would talk to a copy-right or a trademark attorney.

markwilliam1

Please don’t Ruin your images with a Watermark! They can be easily removed with software.

brentrh Loc: Deltona, FL

Agree you still have copyright

Longshadow Loc: Audubon, PA, United States

My prints are never watermarked.
I only watermark images for the web, or make them small enough for only viewing on a monitor.

JohnSwanda Loc: San Francisco

I never watermark my photos. I own the copyright anyway, and watermarks are easily removed, especially with the new Photoshop Generative Fill. I have never seen watermarks on photos in a gallery or museum.

Barre Loc: Fairfax Co, VA

Thanks Mark, I did'nt know that. Should I just cease sharing my works? Any other options?

Longshadow Loc: Audubon, PA, United States

Make them smaller.
I continue to share....

But then I don't make a living by my photography.

I get more pleasure from others viewing them than I do from worrying about who may steal them.

Retired CPO Loc: Travel full time in an RV

Well sure, you own the copyright. But that doesn't keep the dirtbags from copying and using your photos as their own. Or am I missing something here?
I had one of my photos pirated, and it showed up on an on-line bird ID site.

Architect1776 Loc: In my mind

markwilliam1

Agreed! When I see an image Watermarked my eyes go directly to the watermark no matter how small. I still think it’s an Ego thing directing my attention to the photographer who took the photo instead of the photo!

JohnSwanda Loc: San Francisco

The only way to ensure nobody can steal your photos is to not share them online. I only share photos online which are too small to get a good quality print. But in any case, the watermark won't prevent anyone from stealing photos and removing the watermark. Did you notify the bird ID site about your stolen photo?

Architect1776 Loc: In my mind

Of course it is.
Nothing else.

E.L.. Shapiro Loc: Ottawa, Ontario Canada

This is what I do- some suggestions.

Prints (Fine Art and Portraits) are hand-signed- a small signature in an unobtrusive place that does not interfere with composition and in a tone (black, gray, or white) in keeping with the key of the image. Good old India ink and a nib! See copyright information in the next paragraph. A tasteful HAND signature is not necessarily a distraction- artists do that all the time!

Commercial work- Is not signed or watermarked but the stipulation as to COPYRIGHT, license to use, privileges and limitations, and all le protective legality are in the contract. If any unauthorized copies are made, ir terms are violated, I have documentation to reinforce any litigation. If you are selling your work on a nonbasic, it is advisable to consult with a lawyer who specializes in copyright and intellectual property law to help you set up an effective contract form or stipulation to include in your contract and bills of sale. Photographs are considered unique works of art or craft and hold automatic copyright in many jurisdictions, however, in certain cases, it is wise to register specific pieces with the copyright office. If any buyer, client, or organization will not sign off on your terms, do not deal with them or risk unauthorized usage!

If you are worried about unauthorized copying or usage of your images, simply do not place them online. You can deface the images, watermark them, embed a visible or invisible watermark, or " read the riot act" in an accompanying notice all for naught! The bad guys will figure out a way to steal! They will use reduced-sized files and even pictures with the word "PROOF" emblazoned across the image. The bad guys ain't fussy!

This is strictly my policy and opinion. I consulted with the lawyers long ago and this works for me. At the end of the day, photographers ain't lawyers. If you are serious about commercializing your work, it pays to seek the advice of a qualified copyright lawyer. The fee you will pay will be much less than if you have to engage with a violator in a lawsuit.

If you have unprotected work out there- the cat's out of the bag and he ain't coming back any time soon forget about it and protect your future work!

jamesl Loc: Pennsylvania

-------
If you post it, it can be stolen. If you watermark it, it can be removed. Anything you post will have a possibility of being stolen.