Photographer’s Rights – Australia

February 4, 2018

In Australia, there is currently no legal rights that protects an individual’s from been photographed. Therefore, a person in the Australian society does not have a right to privacy and can be photographed without consent. The right to take photographs does not contravene any case law or statues and also does not constitute an invasion of personal privacy. However, Common law doctrines such as nuisance, trespassing, defamation, offensive behavior, and infringement of rights can still apply and impose onus of proof on the photographer.

"A person, in our society, does not have a right not to be photographed."

Justice John Dowd in R v Sotheren (2001) NSWSC 204

Public vs Private Property

There are no legal restrictions on taking photographs at public places in Australia and Photographers are encouraged to take photographs of the general public. In addition, there is no restriction on taking photographs of people on private property from a public property. (According to Victoria Park Racing and Recreation Grounds Co Ltd v Taylor (1937) there is no freedom from view, so people who are photographed on their property from a public location have no legal claim against you if what is captured in the photograph can be seen from the street. ) When taking photographs on private property, it is essential for the photographer to ensure he/she has permission for entry and photographing on private land. Otherwise, it may constitute trespass of land and Photography may be prohibited or restricted within that property.

Criminal Offence

· Summary Offences Act 1988 (NSW)

· Crimes Act 1900 (NSW)

· Surveillance Devices Act 1999 (Vic) & Surveillance Devices Act 1998 (WA)

There are a number of existing criminal laws that address the taking and use of unauthorised images for offensive purposes. Some of these include:

use of surveillance devices to record a ‘private activity’ without consent;[1]
filming for indecent purposes;[2]
making an image of a child engaged in a private act for prurient purposes;[3]
making indecent visual images of a child under the age of 16;[4]
committing indecent or offensive acts in a public place;[5]
child pornography offences;[6] and
using a telecommunications network or carriage service to facilitate certain offences.[7]

Commercial Use

Commercial use is commonly defined as use that is intended for commercial gain, which includes any commercial, promotional, advertising and merchandising purposes.

There are no law imposed on personal use of photographs, but it is necessary to obtain authorization for photographs that will be used for a commercial purpose. A Model Release form should be signed by the subjects to ensure appropriate authorization will be provided for the photographer.

I have included samples of Model Release Forms for both Adult and Minor, note that it does not necessarily address all legal issues or requirements of the photographer. Please download a model release form that best suit to your needs.

Getty Images Model Release Form

(Here is what I use for the authorization of my photos to grant permission to Sell on Getty Images)

https://contribute.gettyimages.com/producer/documents/Model_Release_English_Dec_2008.pdf

Government Property and Famous Landmarks

It is generally permitted to take and publish photographs of buildings, landmarks, sculptures and other craftsmanship: (Copyright Act 1968 (Cth))

However, photography for commercial use is restricted in some areas by councils or authorities:

Sydney Foreshore Area such as Darling Habour, Circular Quay, the Rocks and Luna Park (Sydney Habour Foreshore Authority Regulation 2006 (NSW))
Sydney Olympic Park prohibiting the use for commercial purposes and causing annoyance/inconvenience to others. (Sydney Olympic Park Regulation 2001)
Other areas that may raise public concerns: swimming pools, beaches, parks, cemeteries, etc. It is advisory for the photographer to check the relevant authority’s website beforehand.

Government may impose restrictions on certain government properties such as railway, power stations and military areas. It is illegal to trespass these areas and may lead to prosecutions. You should always check the relevant regulations for a location that you are not sure about.

Police Enforcement

Police Officers in Australia are generally friendly and do not mind their photos taken. However, when Police Officers are duty to conduct a mission then any intervention/interference to their duty should be prevented thus do not take Photos when officers are carrying out their duties.

When there is unnecessary physical conduct by the police that is unacceptable and/or unreasonable, there is always an option to file a complaint to the NSW Police Commission. Before a photographer files a complaint to the Police Commission, it is suggested to get all the details of the Police Officer/s that you are going to make a complaint along with plenty of evidence for the assault. For example, the identification number and full name from the Police Officer/s along with photos/videos/sounds recorded at the scene.

Here is the NSW Police Commission Complaint page:

http://www.police.nsw.gov.au/services/additional_services/complain_about_a_police_officer

In the case that Photographers is approached by the Police and the Police may ask for personal identification. However, in NSW that Photographer does not have to comply with this request excepted in the case of:

where you are in lawful custody, or the police suspect on reasonable grounds that you may assist in the investigation of an indictable offence (Law Enforcement (Powers and Responsibilities) Act 2002 (NSW))

Power to Search and Detain

Under the Law Enforcement (Powers and Responsibilities) Act 2002 (NSW), the Police do not have powers to stop, search and detain a Photographer without a warrant unless they suspect on reasonable grounds that:

you have in your possession or under your control anything stolen or unlawfully obtained, or to be used in connection with the commission of a relevant offence; or
you have in your possession or under your control in a public place a dangerous article that is being or was used in connection with the commission of a relevant offence.

Power of Seizure: Photographic Equipments

Under the Law Enforcement (Powers and Responsibilities) Act 2002 (NSW), the Police do not have powers to seize and detain property without a warrant unless they suspect on reasonable grounds that the property:

is stolen or otherwise unlawfully obtained; or
may provide evidence of a commission of a relevant offence; or
is a dangerous article; or
is a prohibited plant or prohibited drug under the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985.

[1] See, eg, Surveillance Devices Act 1999 (Vic) ss 6–7; Surveillance Devices Act 2000 (NT) s 5; Surveillance Devices Act 1998 (WA) ss 5–6. Not all of the surveillance devices legislation in Australia, however, has a general prohibition on the use of surveillance devices without authorisation or consent: see, eg, in South Australia the prohibition is limited to listening devices:Listening and Surveillance Devices Act 1972 (SA) s 4.

[2] See, eg, Summary Offences Act 1988 (NSW) pt 3B. In some jurisdictions, however, the offence only applies where the indecent material is produced for the purpose of sale: see, eg, Summary Offences Act 1953 (Qld) pt 7.

[3] See, eg, Criminal Law Consolidation Act 1935 (SA) s 63B.

[4] See, eg, Criminal Code (Qld) s 210(1)(f)

[5]See, eg, Ibid s 227(1); Summary Offences Act 1988 (NSW) s 4; Police Offences Act 1935 (Tas) s 13.

[6] See, eg, Crimes Act 1958 (Vic) pt 1 div 13; Criminal Code Act 1924 (Tas) ss 130–130G.

[7]See, eg, Criminal Code (Cth) s 474.14 (using a telecommunications network to commit a serious offence); s 474.17 (using a carriage service to menace, harass or cause offence); ss 474.19–474.20 (using a carriage service to intentionally access, transmit or make available child pornography material); ss 474.22–474.23 (using a carriage service to intentionally access, transmit or make available child abuse material).

Photographer's Rights - United Kingdom (UK)

February 4, 2018

General Rule

Photographers are permitted to take photographs in public places with some restrictions on certain locations.However, there are two public places in London that prohibits photography to be taken for commercial purposes:

1. Trafalgar Square

2. Parliament Square

Prior written consent would be required from the Greater London Authority for Commercial Photography in the two locations and a significant fee will be payable.

Private Property

In order to take photographs on private property, it is necessary for the photographer to obtain permission from the property owner prior to enter. Any person enters onto private property without prior consent will be liable for trespass.

In England and Wales, unauthorized entry into any privately owned property or structure will constitute a trespass, regardless of whether damages are imposed on the property.
In Scotland, the same unauthorized act will also commit a trespass but damages can only claimed if actual damages have been caused.

However, there are certain rights provided to the general public for access into designated areas:

In England and Wales, certain areas of open country and coastline can be access by the public(Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000)
In Scotland, there is a much wider right of access to all land, inland waterways and foreshores for public activities. (Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003)

Legal Restrictions

Law Courts

It is a criminal offence to take any photographs in the court of proceedings and this can be seen as a serious offence.

Children

Photographs of Children cannot be used for pornography purposes (Protection of Children Act 1978) but taking photographs of children in public areas are permitted.

Terrorism

Photographs of members of the military or national security forces are not allowed to be published to prevent any act of terrorism. (Counter-Terrorism Act 2008)

It is also an offence under section 58 of the Terrorism Act 2000 to take photographs that are likely to be useful to a person committing or preparing an act of terrorism.

58 Collection of information.

(1) A person commits an offence if—

(a) he collects or makes a record of information of a kind likely to be useful to a person committing or preparing an act of terrorism, or

(b) he possesses a document or record containing information of that kind.

(2) In this section “record” includes a photographic or electronic record.

The photograph must contain information of such a nature to raise a reasonable suspicion that it was intended to be used to assist in the preparation or commission of an act of terrorism

The Criminal Penalty for this Offence is severe:

(4) A person guilty of an offence under this section shall be liable—

(a) on conviction on indictment, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 10 years, to a fine or to both, or

(b) on summary conviction, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months, to a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum or to both.

Nevertheless, Section 58A of the Terrorism Act 2000 provides a defense of acting with a reasonable excuse but the onus of proof is required.

58A Eliciting, publishing or communicating information about members of armed forces etc

(1) A person commits an offence who—

(a) elicits or attempts to elicit information about an individual who is or has been—

(i) a member of Her Majesty's forces,

(ii) a member of any of the intelligence services, or

(iii) a constable,

which is of a kind likely to be useful to a person committing or preparing an act of terrorism, or

(b) publishes or communicates any such information.

(2) It is a defence for a person charged with an offence under this section to prove that they had a reasonable excuse for their action.

The defense may be provided by showing that the photograph will but used for purposes other than for acts of terrorism.

The Criminal Penalty for this Offence is severe:

(3) A person guilty of an offence under this section is liable—

(a) on conviction on indictment, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 10 years or to a fine, or to both;

(b) on summary conviction—

(i) in England and Wales or Scotland, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 12 months or to a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum, or to both;

(ii) in Northern Ireland, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months or to a fine not exceeding the statutory maximum, or to both.

Copyright

The Copyright law in the UK is similar to Australia (For more details, please take a look at my article, Photographer’s Rights: Australia)

Duration: Copyright in a photograph lasts for 70 years after the death of the Photographer.

Ownership: The owner of the copyright in the photograph is the photographer.

Protection: Copyright protects both from the photographer directly and indirectly copying the work.

Infringement

Infringement of the Copyright is occurred through copying the photograph and in breach of the owner’s exclusive right. However, there must be copying of a substantial part of the photograph to be an infringement of the Copyright.

Privacy

A right to privacy exists in the UK law, as a consequence of the incorporation of the European Convention on Human Rights into domestic law through the Human Rights Act 1998. The right to privacy is protected by Article 8 of the convention:

Article 8 – Right to respect for private and family life

1. Everyone has the right to respect for his private and family life, his home and his correspondence.

2. There shall be no interference by a public authority with the exercise of this right except such as is in accordance with the law and is necessary in a democratic society in the interests of national security, public safety or the economic wellbeing of the country, for the prevention of disorder or crime, for the protection of health or morals, or for the protection of the rights and freedoms of others.

In the context of photography, it stands at odds to the Article 10 right of freedom of expression. In this instance, UK courts will consider public interest in balancing the rights through the legal test of proportionality.

Article 10 – Freedom of expression

1. Everyone has the right to freedom of expression. This right shall include freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart information and ideas without interference by public authority and regardless of frontiers. This article shall not prevent States from requiring the licensing of broadcasting, television or cinema enterprises.

2. The exercise of these freedoms, since it carries with it duties and responsibilities, may be subject to such formalities, conditions, restrictions or penalties as are prescribed by law and are necessary in a democratic society, in the interests of national security, territorial integrity or public safety, for the prevention of disorder or crime, for the protection of health or morals, for the protection of the reputation or rights of others, for preventing the disclosure of information received in confidence, or for maintaining the authority and impartiality of the judiciary.

Photographer's Rights - United States (US)

February 4, 2018

Photography’s Rights – United States of America

General Rule

“If you can see it and you are on public property then you have the right to photograph it.”

When photographing in the United States that you will possess the right to photograph almost anything apart from Military and Energy Installations.

Public Property

Photographers are permitted to take photographs of anything on public property.

Private Property

Photographers may require seeking permission when taking photographs on private property and there still can be restrictions imposed after the permission is granted. Otherwise, taking photographs on private property without permission can constitute trespass of private land.

Restricted Locations for Photographing

Museums, Galleries and Libraries

There will be restrictions imposed when taking photographs inside as they are still regarded as private property for the general public.

Airport

Generally, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) permits photography to be taken as long as it does not interfere with the security process. However, different airports have different regulations or authorities but when you are told not to take photographs then you should ask the basis of the legal authority.

Military and Energy Installations

Military installations are prohibited for the reason to protect national security. Energy facilities such as nuclear facility interiors prohibit photographing for similar reasons.

The law governing the Military and Energy Installation is stipulated in 18 USC Section 795 in relation to Photographing and sketching defense installations

Sec. 795. Photographing and sketching defense installations

(a) {C}Whenever, in the interests of national defense, the President defines certain vital military and naval installations or equipment as requiring protection against the general dissemination of information relative thereto, it shall be unlawful to make any photograph, sketch, picture, drawing, map, or graphical representation of such vital military and naval installations or equipment without first obtaining permission of the commanding officer of the military or naval post, camp, or station, or naval vessels, military and naval aircraft, and any separate military or naval command concerned, or higher authority, and promptly submitting the product obtained to such commanding officer or higher authority for censorship or such other action as he may deem necessary.

(b)
(b) Whoever violates this section shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than one year, or both.

Playground

The photographer has the right to photograph children inside playgrounds. However, it might be regarded as a suspicious activity in most states of America and some people will question your motivation.

National Park

The rule that photography in national parks require a permit is only applicable for commercial photography. Therefore, a commercial permit is not required for general or personal photography.

Permissible Locations and Subjects for Photography

{C}· Accident and fire scenes

{C}· Celebrities

{C}· Bridges and other infrastructure

{C}· Industrial facilities and public utilities

{C}· Residential and commercial buildings

{C}· Transportation facilities

{C}· Superfund sites

{C}· Criminal activities

{C}· Law Enforcement Officers

Commercial Purpose

General Rule: Permission will be required if the photography is designated for commercial purposes.

· For a person, it is recommended that a release form to be signed.

· For private property, the ASMP (American Society of Media Photographers, Inc.) recommends that a property release should be used.

Dealing with the Police Officer

In general when dealing with the police, it is always recommended to remain polite and cooperative without physical resistance. When you are stopped for photography, you should always request the police officer to release you by asking “am I free to go?” Also there is no reason to detain the photographer unless the police officer has reasonable suspicion for your association with any criminal activities. If you are detained, politely ask what crime you are suspected of committing, and remind the officer that taking photographs is your right under the First Amendment and does not constitute reasonable suspicion of criminal activity. There will be no need to provide identification document to the police officer unless in the course of driving.

Confrontations and how to deal with them

The general public or any person in a public space has limited rights to bother, question or detain you without a legitimate purpose. There will be no obligations to explain or disclose your identity.

Private parties have very limited rights and any illegitimate detention may be subject to criminal and civil penalties.

{C}· They have no right to confiscate your film: taking your film directly or indirectly by threatening can constitute criminal offences such as theft and coercion.

{C}· They have no right to harasses you: if you have been threatened or intimidated when taking photographs, they may be liable for criminal offences such as kidnapping and theft. Alternatively, under civil remedies that you may be entitled to compensation for assault, conversion and violation of constitutional rights under Torts.

In the event of confrontations, always start been polite and respectful and if the other party becomes hostile or unreasonable then you should avoid escalate into a violent situation. Alternatively, it is suggested that you enforce your legal rights as listed above and obtain the other party’s personal details.

New York City

Photographers have rights to take photographs in the New York City subway under the State Code:

Rule 1050.9 (c), “Photography, filming or video recording in any facility or conveyance is permitted except that ancillary equipment such as lights, reflectors or tripods may not be used"

Police can still arrest you but there were several successful law suits that the photographer have won and received a large sum of compensation.

Under the MTA rules, Photography is also permitted:

Section 1050.9 – Restricted Areas and Activities

3. Photography, filming or video recording in any facility or conveyance is permitted except that ancillary equipment such as lights, reflectors or tripods may not be used…

…

7. No person may carry on or bring to any facility or conveyance any item that:

i. is so long as to extend outside the window or door of a subway car, bus or other conveyance;

ii. constitutes a hazard to the operation of the Authority, interferes with passenger traffic, or impedes service; or

iii. constitutes a danger or hazard to other persons.

Copyright

The Ownership of Copyright means certain exclusive rights for Photographers. For photographic copyrights, the ownership rights are defined in U.S. Copyright Act:

17 U.S.C. 106 for Photographs:

(1) to reproduce the photograph;

(2) to prepare derivative works based upon the photograph;

(3) to distribute copies of the photograph to the public by sale or other transfer of ownership, or by rental, lease, or lending;

(4) to display the photograph publicly;

In general, the photographer who took the photographs owns its copyright and it is necessary to register this Copyright with the US Copyright Office. If photographs are not registered prior to an infringement (within 3 months of the first publication), a copyright owner may only recover “actual damages” for the infringement instead of statutory damages:

17 U.S. Code 504 - Remedies for infringement: Damages and profits

(a) In General.— Except as otherwise provided by this title, an infringer of copyright is liable for either—

(1) the copyright owner’s actual damages and any additional profits of the infringer, as provided by subsection (b); or

(2) statutory damages, as provided by subsection (c).

(b) Actual Damages and Profits.— The copyright owner is entitled to recover the actual damages suffered by him or her as a result of the infringement, and any profits of the infringer that are attributable to the infringement and are not taken into account in computing the actual damages. In establishing the infringer’s profits, the copyright owner is required to present proof only of the infringer’s gross revenue, and the infringer is required to prove his or her deductible expenses and the elements of profit attributable to factors other than the copyrighted work.

Copyright

March 23, 2014

Duration of Copyright:

Copyright in Photographs lasts for the lifetime of the Photographer plus 70 years beyond. For example, Henri CartierBresson passed away in 2004 then Copyright of his photographs will expire in the year of 2074. The Duration of copyright in original works was stipulated in the Copyright Act.

COPYRIGHT ACT 1968 - SECT 33

(2) Subject to this section, copyright that subsists in a literary, dramatic, musical or artistic work by virtue of this Part continues to subsist until the end of 70 years after the end of the calendar year in which the author of the work died.

If the works of the Photographer has not been published, then the copyright in the work lasts for 70 years after the work is first published:

(3) If, before the death of the author of a literary work (other than a computer program) or a dramatic or musical work:

(a) the work had not been published;...

the copyright in the work continues to subsist until the end of 70 years after the end of the calendar year in which the work is first published…

For unknown or anonymous Photographers, the duration of Copyright is also 70 years after which the work is first published:

SECT 34

Duration of copyright in anonymous and pseudonymous works

(1) Subject to subsection (2), if the first publication of a literary, dramatic, musical or artistic work is anonymous or pseudonymous, any copyright subsisting in the work by virtue of this Part continues to subsist until the end of the period of 70 years after the end of the calendar year in which the work was first published.

NB: Copyright of Photographs taken prior to 1st January 1955 has expired.

Copyright Protection

Copyright Protection is automatic and there are no procedural requirements or system of registration in Australia. Therefore, your photo is instantly protected by copyright from the moment it is captured. Australian Copyright owners are also protected in most other countries, as a result of International Treaties signed by Australia. For example, the Copyright Term stipulated in the Berne Convention stated that:

Article 7

(1)The term of protection granted by this Convention shall be the life of the author and fifty years after his death.

NB: The Copyright Notice is not required for protection in Australia or in most other countries.

Ownership of Copyright

The General Rule applies to the Copyright ownership is that the photographer is the owner of Copyright, unless subject to agreement to the contrary.

From a legal perspective, it is recommended to sign an agreement stating the ownership, whether written or partly written and partly oral. This agreement will act as a legally binding contract in the event of Copyright ownership dispute.

COPYRIGHT ACT 1968 - SECT 35

Ownership of copyright in original works

(2) Subject to this section, the author of a literary, dramatic, musical or artistic work is the owner of any copyright subsisting in the work by virtue of this Part….

Ownership of Copyright allows the Photographer to have the exclusive rights to:

Reproduce the Photographs
Publish the Photographs
Share the Photographs to the Public

Copyright owners also can assign (sell for commercial profits) or license (grant permission for others to use) their photos with/without terms and conditions.

Restrictions of Copyright Use in Different Scenarios

Photographs taken in a Commonwealth Reserve such as National Parks require a permit and subject to certain conditions for any commercial purposes. (The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Regulations 2000 (Cth))
Photographs taken on the Sydney Harbour Areas such as Darling Harbour or Circular Quay are subject to regulations for commercial uses. (Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority Regulations 2011 (NSW))
Photographs taken in the course of Employment are owned by the employer unless there was an agreement made prior. For Photos taken by employees of newspaper and magazine publishers are subject to rules for different time period when the photo was taken:

Before 1 May 1969, the publisher owns all the Copyrights.
On or After 1 May 1969 & Before 30 July 1998, the publisher owns the rights of publication and broadcasting and the photographer owns all other rights.
On or After 30 July 1998, the photographer owns the rights to photocopy or include in books but the publisher owns all other rights.

For Photographs taken for the Government, the government owns the Copyright in the photos created or published unless there is an agreement to the contrary.

For Commissioned Photographs, the general rules on ownership of copyright for paid Photographers that are for photos taken:

Before 1 May 1969, the person paid the photographer has the ownership.
On or After 1 May 1969 & Before 30 July 1998, the owner of copyright is the commissioning client unless otherwise agreed.
On or After 30 July 1998, for ‘domestic or private purposes’ the ownership belongs to the client. For any other purposes, the Photographer owns the Copyright of the photos.

Legal Protection for Copyright Infringement

The General Rule applicable to the Infringement of Copyright is when dealings with Photograph/s that are intrusive to the exclusive rights of the Copyright owner without the owner’s permission.

COPYRIGHT ACT 1968 - SECT 36

Infringement by doing acts comprised in the copyright

(1) Subject to this Act, the copyright in a literary, dramatic, musical or artistic work is infringed by a person who, not being the owner of the copyright, and without the licence of the owner of the copyright, does in Australia, or authorizes the doing in Australia of, any act comprised in the copyright.

Rule in Application:

It will be an infringement if someone uses a substantial part of Copyright material without the permission of the copyright owner. “Substantial Part” is any important, distinctive or essential part of the original material, not necessarily a large part.

Coincidental similarity does not constitute infringe.

Steps to be take when by the Copyright Owner when there is an infringement:

1. Legal Advice – It is recommended to seek legal advice before deciding whether your copyright has been infringed. Advice in relation whether the infringement is “substantial” or there are any special exceptions before taking legal action.

2. Objectives –

The Copyright Owner should decide how the matter will be resolved and what demands you are entitled to, which can include:

Injunction: Infringement Stop
Delivery or Disposal of the Infringement
Compensation for the Infringement

3. Contact the Infringer Directly, if it doesn’t work then;

4. Letter of Demand, it is worth considering getting a lawyer to draft this letter with more legal enforceability.

5. Court Action, this can act as the last legal resort after the Letter of Demand is not responded. The Federal Court of Australia, the Federal Magistrates Court and State and Territory courts all have jurisdiction to hear copyright infringement matters. (Please check the relevant Court Procedures and referrals for formal alternative dispute resolution procedures such as mediation, conciliation or arbitration for their respective websites)

Statutory Limit: Within 6 years for court action for Copyright Infringement.
The owner or owners of Copyright may proceed with Court action.

Remedies

Civil Remedies:

Civil remedies are available for infringement includes damages or an account for profits. Damages are a monetary sum paid to compensate for the infringement and account of profits is the profit made by selling infringements copies.

Criminal Penalties:

Infringement can be a criminal offence and impose criminal penalties such as fines and imprisonment. This is for a larger degree of infringement usually at the commercial scale.

Defences

There are some exceptions or defences, which include:

Fair dealing for the purpose of criticism or review, research or reporting.
Special provisions for copying by libraries, educational institutions and governments.

Legal Actions for the Person in the Photographs

Unauthorised Use of Photographs

The areas of law in Australia that may assist the Photographer to start legal action and cease the unauthorised use of his/her Photographs are:

Defamation
The Trade Practice Act
Passing Off

Defamation

Defamation is legally defined as the action of damaging a person’s reputation, which decreases the respect, regard or confidence in that person. Publish or communicate photographs without consent does not necessarily constitute defamation as it has to be with a false intention. The unauthorised use of the photographs would need to either lower the public’s estimation of the person, expose the person to hatred, contempt or ridicule and induces disparaging, hostile or disagreeable opinions/feelings against the person.

The Trade Practices Act

Under the relevant sections of the Trade Practices Act (Commonwealth), it prohibits commercial conduct with misleading or deceptive purposes. To cease the unauthorised use of photographs under the TPA, it requires providing the evidence that the photograph is misleading or false representing.

TRADE PRACTICES ACT 1974 No. 51, 1974

SECT 52: Misleading or deceptive conduct.

52. (1) A corporation shall not, in trade or commerce, engage in conduct that

is misleading or deceptive.

(2) Nothing in the succeeding provisions of this Division shall be taken as

limiting by implication the generality of sub-section (1).

SECT 53: False representations.

53. A corporation shall not, in trade or commerce, in connexion with the

supply or possible supply of goods or services or in connexion with the

promotion by any means of the supply or use of goods or services-

(a) falsely represent that goods or services are of a particular standard,

quality or grade, or that goods are of a particular style or model;

(b) falsely represent that goods are new;

(c) represent that goods or services have sponsorship, approval,

performance characteristics, accessories, uses or benefits they do not

have;

(d) represent that the corporation has a sponsorship, approval or

affiliation it does not have;

(e) make false or misleading statements concerning the existence of, or

amounts of, price reductions;

(f) make false or misleading statements concerning the need for any goods,

services, replacements or repairs; or

(g) make false or misleading statements concerning the existence or effect

of any warranty or guarantee.

Passing off

The law of passing off in Torts when there is a misrepresentation of a person that is in fact someone else’s. It is designed to protect the reputation of a person/business from misrepresentation. To succeed in an action for passing off, the plaintiff must prove misrepresentation made was intended to damage the reputation and caused actual harm to the person/business.There are some limitations to the law of Passing off when applying to individuals, but as long as the evidence is provided establishing the intention and actual harm occurred due to the misrepresentation, then the law of passing off applies.

Moral Rights

Moral Rights are personal legal rights belonging to the owner of Copyright works and cannot be transferred, assigned or sold. Moral Rights are separate from Copyright as Moral rights impose certain obligations on people who use a Copyright Work.

Moral Rights are defined in the Copyright Act as:

"moral right" means:

(a) in relation to an author:

(i) a right of attribution of authorship; or

(ii) a right not to have authorship falsely attributed; or

(iii) a right of integrity of authorship; and

Only Individuals have Moral Rights:

COPYRIGHT ACT 1968 - SECT 190

Moral rights conferred on individuals

Only individuals have moral rights.

Moral Rights belong to individual creators and they have the right:

To be attributed/credited for their work;
Not to have their work falsely attributed; and
Not to have their work treated in a derogatory way.

Duration of Moral Rights

Moral Rights lasts the same period as Copyrights, which is lifetime plus 70 years.

Right of Attribution

Creators have their right to be attributed when their work is reproduced, published, exhibited, communicated or adapted.

Right of False Attribution

Creators have the right not to have the authorship of their works falsely attributed.

Right of Integrity

Creators have the right to not have his/her work subjected to derogatory treatment, which means any action prejudices the creator’s honour or reputation.

Exceptions:

There are two cases that do not contravene the moral rights:

Consent

The Copyright Act sets out several different regimes for providing consent to infringements of moral rights.

Subdivision B--Infringement of moral rights of performers

195AXA. Infringement of right of attribution of performership

195AXB. Infringement of right not to have performership falsely attributed

195AXC. Infringement of right of integrity of performership

195AXD. No infringement of right of attribution of performership if it was reasonable not to identify the performer

195AXE. No infringement of right of integrity of performership if derogatory treatment or other action was reasonable

195AXF. Infringement by importation for sale or other dealing

195AXG. Infringement by sale and other dealings

195AXH. Matters to be taken into account

195AXI. Communication by use of certain facilities

195AXJ. Performer's consent to act or omission

195AXK. Consent invalidated by duress or false or misleading statements

195AXL. Acts or omissions outside Australia

2. Reasonableness

If reasonable course of action has taken in the circumstances that does not infringe the creator’s rights, a number of factors are to be considered: the nature of work, the purpose, manner and context, industry practice, course of employment/contract or if there are different views from multiple authors.

SAMPLE LETTERS OF DEMAND

The following Samples Letters of Demand have been included from the ArtsLaw Information Sheet and they are for the sole purpose of legal reference only, please contact the solicitor to draft a formal letter of demand or proceed with relevant court proceedings in cases of serious breach.

Moral rights infringement - Letter of Demand
Copyright Infringement - Letter of Demand
Copyright and Moral Right Infringement by Media - Letter of Demand (Visual Arts & Photos)

You should modify these Sample Letters of Demand to suit individual needs, please contact me for a PDF version of the above Sample Letters of Demand with Instructions.

SAMPLE IMAGE LICENSES

Image License

Exclusive License

An Exclusive License is a license which is in writing and signed by the Copyright owner. An exclusive licensee has similar rights to the owner of copyright, and may take legal action for infringement by third parties.

Non-Exclusive License

A Nonexclusive license offers the rights for reproduction or illustration of your work but at the same time, it also maintained the same rights for yourself.

Implied License

Permission may be implied from the circumstances. However, it can be difficult to assess whether a license is implied or not, as it will always depend on all the relevant circumstances.

The following Samples Image Licenses are for the sole purpose of legal reference only, please contact lawyer to draft a formal image agreement.

Deed of Assignment of Copyright
Non-Exclusive Image License

You should modify these Sample Image Licenses to suit individual needs, please contact me for a PDF version of the above Sample Image License.

General Information for Photography Licenses

March 19, 2014

Types of Image Licenses

Exclusive Licence

An Exclusive Licence is a licence which is in writing and signed by the Copyright owner. An exclusive licensee has smiliar rights to the owner of copyright, and may take legal action for infringement by third paties.

Non-Exculsive Licence

A Non-exclusive license offers the rights for reproduction or illustration of your work but at the same time, it also maintained the same rights for yourself.

Implied Licences

Permission may be implied from the circumstances. However, it can be difficult to assess whether a license is implied or not as it will always depend on all the circumstances.

Standard Terms and conditions for assignment photography

1. Definitions

For the purpose of this agreement "the client " shall where the context so admits include their respective assignees, sublicencees and successors in title. "photographs" means all photographic material furnished by [Insert Name] whether transparencies, negatives, prints or any other type of physical or electronic material.

2. Copyright

The copyright in the photographs is owned by and retained by [Insert Name] at all times throughout the world. The Client agrees that [Insert Name] is the sole author of the photographs.

3. Licence to use

The Licence shall be for the territory time and use as agreed and shall come into effect from the date of payment of the relevant invoice(s). No use may be made of the photographs before payment in full of the relevant invoice(s) without [Insert Name] express permission in writing. The Licence only applies for the use as agreed and does not include any form of electronic or other storage. The Licence cannot be transferred without [Insert Name] express permission in writing.

4. Photographers promotional use

Where an exclusive licence is granted, [Insert Name] will at all times retain the right to use the photographs in any manner and in any part of the world for the purpose of advertising and promoting his work.

5. Ownership of materials

Title to all Photographs remains the property of [Insert Name]. When the Licence has expired the photographs will be returned to [Insert Name].

6. No Alteration

No alteration or manipulation of the image may be made with out the permission of [Insert Name]

7. Clients materials

The Client accepts full responsibility for any materials that they supply for use in the photographs and that the materials are adequately insured against loss, damage or liability.

8. Payment

Payment by the client will be required for the right to use the photographs as provided within 14 days of the issue of the relevant invoice. Late payment fees will become applicable for any unpaid money after that time. Where the work is estimated to exceed $5000.00 inc materials, payment of 30% of the estimated total will be paid before the work commences.

9. Indemnity
[Insert Name] shall not be liable for any legal action, claim or damages resulting from or arising out of the publication of the photographs or other use by the client. The client shall indemnify [Insert Name] against any claims and/or damages against him as a result of the clients use of the photographs.

10. Client Approval

If the client is not present during the actual photography sessions then [Insert Name] interpretation of the assignment will be accepted. Unless a rejection fee is agreed in advance then there is no right of rejection.

11. Cancellation and postponements

Once [Insert Name] has been commissioned, The Client is responsible for payment of all expenses incurred up to the time of cancellation and will be entitled to charge a fee for cancellation or postponement at his discretion.

12. Right to a credit

[Insert Name]'s name will be printed in reasonable proximity to all published reproductions of the photographs unless agreed otherwise prior to the work commencing.

13. Archiving

The photographs are an original work and [Insert Name] will not archive copies of the photographs unless specifically requested in writing prior to the work commencing. Each photograph is unique and does not have an exact duplicate and may be impossible to replace or recreate.

14. Client Confidentiality

[Insert Name] will keep confidential and will not disclose to any third parties or make use of material or information communicated to him in confidence for the purposes of the photography save as may be reasonably necessary to enable him to carry out the work.

15. Variation

These terms shall not be varied except by agreement in writing.

16. Applicable Law

This agreement is governed by the Laws of New South Wales.

If you require a PDF version of the Sample Image Licenses, Please contact me.

Sample Non-Exclusive License - Photographs

March 19, 2014

Non-Exclusive licence to use an image

(photography or videography)

1. Parties

[Insert name and address of person or company granting the rights (if it is a Company include the ACN / ABN)]

(the “Licensor”)

and

[Insert name and address of person or company being granted the rights]

(the “Licensee”)

2. Ownership of copyright

The Licensor is the owner of copyright in [identify the copyright material as clearly as possible - attach a copy where possible] (“the Work”).

3. Grant of rights

The Licensor grants the Licensee a non-exclusive licence to [insert details of what the licensee may do with the material (eg: reproduce it on t-shirts) and, if appropriate, how many copies may be made].

4. Licensee’s obligations

The non-exclusive licence granted in clause 3 is conditional upon the Licensee ensuring that:

a) the Work is reproduced in full without any alterations or additions;

b) the following attribution and copyright notice appears on all copies of the Work;

[insert example of how you would like the attribution and copyright notice to appear eg: “Work by Joe Brown. (COPYRIGHT SYMBOL) Joe Brown 1998”] ;

c) the Licensee pays the Licensor [insert details of payment eg: a lump sum or a percentage of the sale price of the item] ; and

d) insert any other special conditions.

5. Duration of licence

This licence will expire on [insert date].

6. Territory

This licence is limited to the territory of [insert territory (eg: Australia)].

7. Signature

[The agreement should be signed and dated by both parties].

Sample Assignment of Copyright - Photographs

March 19, 2014

DEED OF ASSIGNMENT OF COPYRIGHT (PHOTOGRAPHS)

BETWEEN

Company Pty Ltd ACN 111 222 333 (the “Assignor”)

AND

Other Company ACN111 222 444 (the “Assignee”)

DEED OF ASSIGNMENT OF COPYRIGHT (PHOTOGRAPH/S)

MADE THE _________________ DAY OF _____________________________ 20____ .

BETWEEN:

Company Pty Ltd ACN 111 222 333 of 1 Sydney Street Sydney 2000

(the “Assignor”)

AND:

Other Company ACN111 222 444 of 1 Brisbane Street Brisbane 7000

(the “Assignee”).

RECITALS:

A.The Assignor is the copyright owner of the Photograph/s described in the Schedule and the Assignor is able to assign the copyright free of all encumbrances and adverse interests.

B. The parties have agreed to enter into this Deed to assign the copyright in the Photograph/s to the Assignee on the terms and conditions set out in this Deed.

THE PARTIES AGREE AS FOLLOWS:

1. ASSIGNMENT

1.1The Assignor hereby assigns to the Assignee all of the Assignor’s right, title and interest in the Photograph/s including any copyrights throughout the world and the Assignee hereby accepts such assignment.

2. WARRANTIES

2.1 The Assignor warrants that:

(a) the Assignor is the sole and exclusive owner of the copyright in the Photograph/s;

(b) Copyright under the Copyright Act 1968 (Cth) as amended subsists in the Photograph/s;

(d) the Assignor has not previously assigned, licensed or granted any other right to any person to use the copyright or any part thereof in the Photograph/s;

(e) no third party is the owner of any moral rights under Part IX of the Copyright Act 1968 (Cth);

(f) this Deed is a valid assignment of all his/her/its right, title and interest in the Photograph/s and in the copyright in the Photograph/s.

3. UNDERTAKINGS

3.1 Each party agrees to make, do and execute all such other documents, acts, matters or things whatever which may be necessary or desirable to give full effect to the provisions of this Deed.

3.2 The Assignor will provide to the Assignee the Photograph/s in either digital or non-digital format in the manner set out in the attached Schedule either prior to or simultaneously with the execution of this Deed.

4. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

4.1 The Assignee represents to the Assignor that it/he/she has carried out due inquiries as to the copyright in the Photograph/s and the Assignee has satisfied itself/himself/ herself as to the suitability, fitness for purpose and utility of the copyright in the Photograph/s AND the Assignor gives no warranty and makes no representation in respect thereof and to the extent to which the law might imply any term as to suitability, fitness for purpose and utility THEN the parties expressly agree that all such implied terms are to the fullest extent permitted by law hereby excluded.

4.2 The Assignee acknowledges that it/he/she is not relying upon any representation, undertaking or other statement by the Assignor as to the content of the Photograph/s, how the Photograph/s can be used or as to any other feature of the Photograph/s AND has relied exclusively upon its/his/her own assessment as to suitability, fitness for purpose and utility of the Photograph/s.

5. MORAL RIGHTS

5.1 In relation to the Photograph/s, the Assignor reserves the right to make a moral rights claim pursuant to Part IX of the Copyright Act 1968 (Cth).

6. CONSIDERATION

6.1 The consideration for this assignment is the payment of Five Hundred Dollars ($500) by the Assignee to the Assignor made simultaneously with the exchange of signed counterparts of this Deed, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged by the Assignor.

7. GST

7.1 Where this assignment constitutes a supply for the purposes of the Goods and Services Tax legislation in Australia, the Assignor will provide a tax invoice to the Assignee for the amount of the consideration referred to in Clause 5 plus GST and the Assignee will pay to the Assignor in addition to the consideration the said amount of GST.

SCHEDULE

Copyright Details:

in digital format minimum 300 dpi in TIFF/JPEG or EPS file on CD

EXECUTED AS A DEED on the date first mentioned.

SIGNED AS A DEED BY

Company Pty Ltd

ACN 111 222 333

pursuant to Section 127 of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) in the presence of:

Director

Print Name:

Signature of Witness

Print Name:

SIGNED AS A DEED BY

Other Company

ACN 111 222 444

pursuant to

Section 127 of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) in the presence of:

Director/Secretary

Print Name:

Director

Print Name:

Signature of Witness

Print Name:

Director/Secretary

Print Name:

General Information for Letters of Demand - Breach of Copyright and Moral Rights

March 19, 2014

What is a letter of demand for breach of copyright and/or moral rights?

Once you have identified a breach of your copyright and/or moral rights, a letter of demand can be sent to the person or organisation responsible in order to:

make the recipient aware that you hold the copyright and/or the moral rights in the work in question;
outline your exclusive rights as the copyright owner and/or your legal moral rights as the creator of the work;
explain how the recipient has infringed your copyright and/or moral rights and the legal consequences;
point out what they need to do to remedy the situation and specify a reasonable time limit within which that must happen;
inform them that if an adequate response is not received within a certain time that you may exercise your right to commence legal proceedings against them.

The letter of demand can become an important legal document if the problem is not resolved. It can be used as evidence in any court proceedings to prove that you informed the recipient of your rights and gave them an opportunity to rectify the breach.

Things to know when sending a letter of demand

When sending a letter of demand you should be careful:

not to make threats about infringement which cannot be substantiated. You need to be able to prove that you are the creator of the work and show how the recipient has breached your copyright and/or moral rights;
not to send a letter which is designed to look like a court document;
to identify your work clearly and the way in which you allege your copyright and/or moral rights have been infringed (e.g. by reference to a publication, title, website etc.)

It is advisable to send a letter of demand by registered post or fax so that later you can demonstrate that it was received. Don't forget to retain a copy for your records.

After you received a reply to the Letter of Demand

If you receive a reply:

If the recipient signs and returns a copy of the letter, he or she is bound by contract to comply with the undertakings. You should follow up to make sure they have done so. Alternatively, the reply may agree only to some of your demands or may offer something different. If this is acceptable to you, you should draw write back confirming your agreement so that the varied offer becomes a binding contract. It may be necessary to draw up an agreement that outlines what the parties have agreed to do and that they will carry these obligations out. This should also be signed by both sides.

If you do not receive a reply or receive a reply rejecting your allegations:

It is advisable that you seek legal advice from a solicitor who may send another formal letter of demand. As a last legal resort, you may commence court proceedings.

1. Moral rights infringement - Letter of Demand

2. Copyright Infringement - Letter of Demand

3. Copyright and Moral Right Infringement by Media - Letter of Demand (Visual Arts & Photos)

You should modify these Sample Letters of Demand to suit individual needs, please contact me for a PDF version of the above Sample Letters of Demand with Instructions.

Letter of Demand - Moral Rights Infringement

March 19, 2014

ArtsLaw Information Sheet

Instructions and Notes.

Set out above is a sample letter of demand. You will see where you need to insert your relevant information; however you may also need to amend the letter to suit your needs. For example, if the recipient is not only infringing your moral rights but has also infringed your copyright, you may need to combine elements from the sample letter of demand on copyright –

The following are some changes you may need to make to suit your particular case.

You will need to think about what 'remedies' or corrective actions to include in the fourth paragraph. These will depend on your particular work and how your moral rights have been infringed. They may include:
- a demand that the recipient cease infringing your rights immediately ;
- a public apology be made for the infringement;
- a printed correction acknowledging the failure to attribute you and stating that you are the creator of the work;
- changes to an exhibition or presentation or recall of a publication that is derogatory to your work and reputation;
- damages for loss resulting from the infringement; and/or
- a demand that any false attribution of authorship, or derogatory treatment, of the work be removed or reversed.
Try and make your demands as clear as possible so that the reader understands what you want and there is no confusion.
There is a good chance that if someone is infringing your moral rights, they may also be infringing your copyright. If you believe that copyright has also been infringed you may wish to adapt your letter to address this and add demands to rectify this problem. For further information on copyright please go to the Australian Copyright Council website.

Sample letter of demand for moral rights infringement

[Date]

[Insert name]

[Insert address]

Dear Sir/Madam [or name of the person if known]

I am the creator of [insert name or description of work, for example "the documentary film entitled 'ABC for Artists' shown on free-to-air television in Australia in February 2008"] (the Work).

As creator of the Work, I have the following moral rights under Australian law:

a. the right to be attributed as creator of the Work;

b. the right against false attribution; and

c. the right of integrity, to prevent derogatory treatment of my Work.

I have noticed that you have [insert way in which they have breached your moral rights. For example "you have failed to attribute me as the creator of the artwork which you have used in your exhibition on the 17th May 2007"].

[Attach an example if possible showing the breach - for example, a copy of an advertisement which shows the Work and does not attribute you as the artist.]

The conduct described above constitutes an infringement of my moral right ['to be attributed', AND/OR 'against false attribution', AND/OR 'of integrity'].

To rectify this infringement of my rights, I require that you undertake to:

[insert your demands as to how you want the reader to rectify the problem. Please see notes below.]

You can confirm your acceptance of these undertakings by signing and dating a copy of this letter and returning it to me within 21 days.

You are now on notice as to my moral rights in respect of the Work. If I do not receive an adequate response within 21 days of this letter, I will take such action as I may be advised in order to protect my rights including, without limitation, legal action for injunctive relief or to recover damages without further notice to you.

I otherwise reserve all my rights.

Yours faithfully

[signature]

AGREED:

_____________________

(signature)

_____________________

(print name)

_____________________

(date)

Letter of Demand - Copyright Infringement

March 19, 2014

ArtsLaw Information Sheet

Instructions and Notes.

The above is a sample letter. You will see where you need to insert your relevant information however you may also need to amend the letter to suit your needs. The following are some changes you may need to make to suit your particular case.

In paragraph two you may need to change the list of exclusive rights depending on the nature of your work and of the breach. For example your work may be a piece of music or a play. In that case, your exclusive rights include the right to "perform the work in public". (For a full list of the exclusive rights see the information sheets provided by the Australian Copyright Council (www.copyright.org.au).
The fourth paragraph which lists your demands on the reader may also need to be changed. For example if the infringer is also selling reproductions of your work you will also want to demand that they cease to do so and that the reproductions be destroyed.
There is also a good chance that the copyright infringer is also infringing your ‘Moral Rights’. The creator of a work has certain moral rights under Australian law which include; the right to be attributed as the creator of the work, the right against false attribution and the right to object to any derogatory treatment of their work. If you believe that your moral rights have also been infringed you may wish to adapt your letter to address this and add demands to rectify this problem.
Try and make your demands as clear as possible so that the reader understands what you want and there is no confusion.

Sample letter of demand for Copyright Infringement

[Date]

[Insert name]
[Insert address]

Dear Sir/Madam [or name of the person if known]

I am the owner of copyright in [insert name or description of work] (the Work).

As copyright owner, I have a number of exclusive rights under the Copyright Act 1968 (Cth). These exclusive rights include the right to reproduce the Work, and to publish and communicate the Work to the public (including by way of sale, broadcast or putting the Work online). It is an infringement of copyright to do any of the acts comprised in the copyright in relation to the whole or a substantial part of the Work, or to authorise such an act, without the permission or licence of the copyright owner.

It has come to my attention that you have [insert way in which they have breached your copyright. If applicable also insert dates. For example: "photographed my work and published it in your online publication dated the 10th of April 2007"]. As you have failed to seek permission or a licence from me to do so, your conduct described above constitutes infringement of my rights of copyright.

To rectify this infringement of my rights, I require that you undertake to:

immediately stop infringing my copyright;
provide me with [insert an amount of money] for the use of my work to date;
[OPTIONAL - Enter into a licence with me for future use of my work]; and
[IF APPLICABLE - Deliver all originals or copies of my work to me including any infringing copies]

You can confirm your acceptance of these undertakings by signing and dating a copy of this letter and returning it to me within 21 days.

You are now on notice as to my copyright in respect of the Work. If I do not receive an adequate response within 21 days of this letter, I will take such action as I may be advised in order to protect my rights including, without limitation, legal action for injunctive relief or to recover damages without further notice to you.

I otherwise reserve all my rights.

Yours [faithfully/sincerely]

[signature]

AGREED:
_____________________
(signature)

_____________________
(date)

Letter of Demand - Copyright and moral right infringement by Media (Visual arts & Photo)

March 19, 2014

ArtsLaw Information Sheet

This information sheet explains to visual artists and photographers how to prepare a letter of demand to send to a person or organisation in the media (e.g. a newspaper) who you believe is infringing your copyright and/or moral rights, whether in print or online. The first step is to understand your copyright and moral rights and make a careful assessment as to whether they are being infringed.

INSTRUCTIONS AND NOTES

Set out above is a sample letter of demand. You will see where you need to insert your relevant information; however you may also need to amend the letter to suit your needs.

The following are some changes you may need to make to suit your particular case.

The sixth paragraph which lists your demands may need to be changed depending on the specific circumstances of the infringing conduct and whether the infringement concerns breaches of your copyright, moral rights or both.
Try and make your demands as clear as possible so that the reader understands what you want and there is no confusion.

Sample letter of demand for visual arts and photography print/online copyright and/or moral rights infringement

[Date]

[Insert name]

[Insert address]

Dear Sir/Madam [or name of the person if known]

I am the owner of copyright in [AND/OR the creator of] [insert name or description of artwork or photograph] (the Work).

[Delete this paragraph is you are NOT the copyright owner] As copyright owner, I have a number of exclusive rights under the Copyright Act 1968 (Cth). These exclusive rights include the right to reproduce the Work, and to publish and communicate the Work to the public (including by way of sale, broadcast or putting the Work online). It is an infringement of copyright to do any of the acts comprised in the copyright in relation to the whole or a substantial part of the Work, or to authorise such an act, without my permission or licence.

[Delete this paragraph if your moral rights have NOT been infringed e.g. you were attributed for your work, but they did not seek your permission as copyright owner to reproduce your work in print or online] As creator of the Work, I retain moral rights under Australian law, being:

a) the right to be attributed as creator of the Work;

b) the right against false attribution; and

c) the right of integrity, to prevent derogatory treatment of my Work.

It is an infringement of my moral rights if I am not attributed as the creator of the Work, someone else is attributed as the creator of my Work, or my Work is treated in a derogatory manner without my permission.

It has come to my attention that you have [insert way in which they have breached your copyright and/or moral rights. If applicable also insert dates. For example: "photographed my artwork/reproduced my photograph and published it without permission AND/OR failed to attribute me as the creator of the artwork/photograph in your online publication dated 17 January 2013"]. [Attach an example if possible showing the breach - for example, a copy of an article or advertisement which shows the Work you have not given permission to reproduce AND/OR does not attribute you as the creator.]

The conduct described above constitutes infringement of my copyright AND/OR my moral right ['to be attributed', AND/OR 'against false attribution', AND/OR 'of integrity'].

To rectify this infringement of my rights, I require that you undertake to:

1. immediately stop infringing my copyright AND/OR moral rights;

2. [insert any further demands as to how you want the person/organisation to rectify the problem which might include:

if you are the copyright owner:

o provision for an amount of money for the use of your work to date;

o entering into a license with the infringer for future use of your work;

o delivery of all copies of your work to you including any infringing copies(if applicable); and/or

o if the infringer is also selling reproductions of your work you will also want to demand that they cease to do so and that the reproductions be destroyed.

If you hold moral rights:

o a public apology be made for the infringement;

o a printed correction acknowledging the failure to attribute you and stating that you are the creator of the work;

o recall of a publication that is derogatory to your work and reputation;

o damages for loss resulting from the infringement; and/or

o a demand that any false attribution of authorship, or derogatory treatment, of the work be removed or reversed. ]

You can confirm your acceptance of these undertakings by signing and dating a copy of this letter and returning it to me within 21 days.

You are now on notice as to my copyright [AND/OR moral rights] in respect of the Work. If I do not receive an adequate response within 21 days of this letter, I will take such action as I may be advised in order to protect my rights including, without limitation, legal action for injunctive relief or to recover damages without further notice to you.

I otherwise reserve all my rights.

Yours faithfully

[signature]

AGREED:

__________________________

(signature of authorised person)

__________________________

(name of authorised person)

__________________________

(company (if applicable))

__________________________

(date)

Foreword

March 10, 2014

My name is Jerry Bei, if you are here i am guessing you are either interested in my photographs or would like to know more about me. I am a Lawyer by the day and is currently practicing law in Australia, during my spare time or whenever I can that I love to go out shooting. Working in the Legal profession is very demanding and intellectually challenging but my passion for photography is what keeps driving me and never give it up. My background is of Chinese ethnics but I was raised in the Western culture, therefore I am fully aware of both Asian and Western Cultures to assist the identification of cultural differences across the World.

As a frequent traveler myself, I love to visit as many different countries and cultures as I can. There are many countries I have been to but there are even more places that I would love to explore someday. I love Street Photography and the desire to discover alleyways of an alien country excites me. At the same time, I have encountered the challenges to shoot on the streets of another country. Therefore, it is necessary to make yourself comfortable during your travel, so that you can capture those moments you wanted.

As a legal practitioner, it is essential for me to let every photographer to become aware of their Photographer's Rights in the context of two divisions:

1) Legal

2) Cultural

In my articles published here, I will go through the relevant Legislation and Common Law with their real-world application in different contexts. There will be analysis of Photographing on distinct types of Property (Public vs Private) and Photography usage (Personal vs Commercial) from a legal perspective. The Possibility of Police Enforcement and how to respond in those stressful situations. In addition, Legal Issues in relation to Copyright and Privacy will also be addressed.