Verifying Exact Identity and Scope — Verifying Exact Identity and Scope

S. Copyright Office allows photographs to be registered as visual art works. This registration protects the photographer’s specific artistic choices, such as the selection and positioning of the subject, camera lens, angle, lighting, and timing.

The author and initial copyright owner is generally the person who takes the photo, unless it is created as a work made for hire. Verifying these registered details can help clarify the context and authorship of an image.