As a professional photographer, I avoid posting my photography on social media. Why? It’s a business decision.
Photography on Social Media
The issue with photography on social media
I don’t post my photographs on social media as a professional photographer. In fact, It’s a business decision not to post my work on social media. Specifically, it has to do with ownership of my copyright.
The importance of copyright
In brief, we own the copyright to our work from the moment we create the original work. Additionally, the ownership of our copyright is essential if we want to control how the work is used and our ability to earn money with our pictures. Of course, our pictures need to be interesting enough, so people want to use them. However, suppose we don’t own the copyright to our work or give up a substantial part of our copyright. In that case, at worst, we lose all ability to earn money with our work, on the other hand, we can put ourselves in a position of competing with ourselves.
What happens with our copyright when we put our photography on social media?
Frequently social media platforms have Terms and Conditions (T&C) or Terms of Service (TOS) posted on their website. Furthermore, a section within the TOS usually addresses the copyright to submitted work. Often, the T&C winds up being a “rights grab.” Consequently, by posting our work to the social media platform, we give up a substantial portion of the copyright to our work. Of course, this seriously hinders our ability to make money by licensing the use of our work. Additionally, because of the rights we grant when posting our photography to social media, we have little recourse when it comes to suing for copyright infringement.
Do ya wanna be a better photographer?
Study and practice photography with Sam
References:
Sam D’Amico’s Photography classes were voted the Best Art Class in Washington, DC.
Study And Practice Photography With Sam
https://samdamico.com/photography-classes-photography-courses/
Purchase Photographs As Wall Decor
https://samdamico.com/buy-fine-art-photography-as-wall-decor/
License The Use Of An Image For Commercial Or Editorial Use
https://samdamico.com/rights-managed-stock-photography/
See Sam’s Photographs
https://photographs.samdamico.com