Who Said That?

Some interesting things on Copyright from my publisher AuthorHouse. The notable things to mention here is that everything you blog is copyrighted. The very act of publishing something to the Internet makes it your material...so when so asshole uses one of your poems on their site and tries to say it is theirs you can file an injunction to have them remove it. Copy Right does not apply to facts or ideas. Only protects you from plagiarism if someone copies how you present them...My lesson learned the hard way. If you want to talk about an idea get it patented first!!


What is a "copyright"?
Copyright is a form of protection grounded in the U.S. Constitution and granted by law for original works of authorship fixed in a tangible medium of expression. Copyright covers both published and unpublished works.

What does copyright protect?
Copyright protects original works of authorship including literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works, such as poetry, novels, movies, songs, computer software, and architecture. Copyright does not protect facts, ideas, systems, or methods of operation, although it may protect the way these things are expressed.

When is my work protected?
Your work is under copyright protection the moment it is created and fixed in a tangible form (written down).

If copyright is automatic, then why do people register for copyright?
Copyright registration is voluntary. Copyright exists from the moment the work is created. You will have to register, however, if you wish to bring a lawsuit for infringement of a work. Registration is recommended.

What is “fair use”?
Under the fair use doctrine, it is permissible to use limited portions of a work including quotes, for purposes such as commentary, criticism, news reporting, and scholarly reports. There is no specific number of words, lines, or notes that may safely be taken without permission.
What qualifies as fair use depends on all the circumstances — including the purpose of the use, the nature of the original work, the amount used, and the effect on the potential market value.
Acknowledging the source of the copyrighted material does not substitute for obtaining permission. The safest course is always to get permission from the copyright owner before using copyrighted material. If there is any doubt, it is advisable to consult an attorney.

If it is published on the internet, isn’t it available to use?
No. Material on the internet is covered by copyright law.

Why do I need to get permission to use a picture of myself?
The person who snapped the picture holds the copyright to a photograph