Copyrighted Pictures??? (All)

[Rudi]

Some web pages have very clear indications that the pictures displayed on the page are copyrighted! Then on others you have to seach for the copyright statement by even going into a link like FAQ, etc! Other web pages do not have any copyright statements even after an extensive search.

I need to clarify this once for all...If I cannot find a copyright anywhere on the web page...can I copy the photos and use them personally and publically???

Thanx for any advice!

[Rudi]

I found this web page which nicely outlines copyright details...
See Digital Images and Copyright

Here is another issue?? If a picture is posted in the lounge, and I copy that picture, under who's copyright does it belong, as I may not be aware of the original source, but i see there is a copyright under the lounge web page. Is it still copyrighted, and whos permission do I need to ask for to use the image?

Sorry for the legal Q's??!!

[unkamunka]

>can I copy the photos and use them personally and publically???

This is a question of law, and this site does not provide legal advice. What follows is stated on a purely personal basis.

This issue also turns on where the use you would be making of these images takes place - presumably South Africa.

If you really "...need to clarify this once for all...", the simple advice is: if you have any doubts: don't.

The only thing I can add is that in most instances infringement of copyright takes place when the copyrighted material is "published" without the due rights of the copyright-holder being respected. If by "...use...personally..." you mean that the images are going to be held on a computer where they - in all circumstances - will only be visible by you and you alone then it is likely that you would not be publishing the images.

If you want to research the matter further, Googling using the terms "public domain" and copyright should start you in the right direction.

HTH

[Rudi]

Tx for the response. Much appreciated...and I fully understand that this site does not provide legal advice! I will continue reading up on this issue elsewhere.
Cheers

[jscher2000]

> If I cannot find a copyright anywhere on the web page...can I copy the photos and use them personally and publically???

Most countries no longer require copyright notices in order for the copyright rights to be enforceable. This was one of the formalities that the Berne Convention did away with many years ago. So whether you can or can't use the images does not depend on whether there is a copyright notice. (It depends on things way too complicated to discuss here!)

[Rudi]

It certainly sounds that way....

I get the feeling that there are so many loop holes in this scenario, that you don't know if you're coming or going....

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