When does a photographer lose copyright to a file or photo?

[Sylvia Renick]

When a photgrapher sells the pictures (files) of a photoshoot to the customer has he or she relinquished copyrights to those files?
In essence can the customer use those files in any way they chose, and specifically to make money?

[Christoph C. Feldhaim]

Depends on the contract you made.
You'd have to look in the individual case and discuss it with a lawyer.

[langier]

Only if the copyright is explicitly transferred in writing, form what I understand, or done as a "work for hire" agreements. Check with an attorney to see what he things is the case for your individual circumstance.

[Slobodan Blagojevic]

In general, copyright stays with the photographer. Exceptions are, as mentioned, "work for hire" and if specified so in a contract.

[Isaac]

PACA education services

• "This video presentation, by our legal counsel Nancy Wolff, uses images from cases to explain what copyright protects with respect to visual images, when permission is needed and when fair use may allow certain uses without permission"
• "Same as above but in PowerPoint form"
• "Continually updated, our legal forms and agreements are helpful templates to meet your legal needs."

[Sylvia Renick]

Thank-you!