In commenting on “Who Holds the Copyright” Michael Hiat, CG noted that it seemed like an implied work for hire to have someone snap your photo with your camera. This was definitely part of my thought process, but…. There are many professional genealogists out there that believe they own the copyright of the work they do for clients. The law agrees. Without a contract stating otherwise, anything written by the researcher can only be used with their consent. The facts they dig up can of course be shared, they are facts. But the actual report is another matter, and many have statements on the report stating it is not to be shared.
I am interested in comments from researchers, clients, and potential clients on the issue of works for hire. I would also like to post copies of contracts that deal with the copyright issue up front (we can leave out any names and specific details. If you are willing to share, please send to projects@csga.com)
Results of Last Poll— 55.5% of respondents thought the picture taker owned copyright of the picture. 44.5% thought the camera owner owned the copyright, no one was still confused. Take the new poll, who owns the copyright when a genealogist is paid to do research for a client?
csgacopyright 