Thanks guys and thanks to Carolyn E. Wright! This is good information regardless of nay-Sayers view that no protection is possible. Much appreciated input!

Thanks BillyBob and others! this is very helpful and obviously one has to get organized and take the time to get going; one step at a time. I'm going to travel in Asia and hope to return with loads of good shots! hopefully, selling some will help defray future travels.

How can you ensure to keep your copyright on personal photographs appearing online through sites such as this one, Facebook or other widely diffused site?

Thanks for sharing that encouraging note.

:D
Does anyone with experience with selling stock photos want to share their experience?
I would like to know if it's worth the effort to get involved with selling this way and what the best way to succeed could be - aside from having the most creative, most high definition, high quality shots on the market.
Any help will be appreciated.