Evaluating Image Publication Status — Evaluating Image Publication Status

When sourcing images for a timeline, it is important to distinguish between published and unpublished photographs of the athlete. Under copyright law, a photograph is considered published when copies are distributed to the public for the first time, or offered for public display or further distribution.

However, public display of a photograph, in and of itself, does not constitute publication. Understanding this distinction is crucial because publication status affects the legal relief available for copyright infringement.