3. Consulting First-Party & Official Records — 3. Consulting First-Party & Official Records

Rather than relying on unverified captions, researchers can consult official registration records to verify the ownership of visual works. S. Copyright Office allows photographers to register their photographs as visual art works to protect their creative choices.

Generally, the person who takes the photograph is recognized as the author and initial copyright owner. However, limited exceptions apply to this rule, such as when a photograph is legally created as a work made for hire.