Copywrited pictures

using my photos on website

[cpanderson]

I am the webmaster for my son's general contracting business in CA. While in the process of building a home (framing), he and his crew take pictures and I publish them on his page under his projects. To me it is logical that since the photos are of his companies work, we are completely in our rights to use the photos. Can anyone tell me whether my assumption is correct or lead me to someone that can? Thanks so much

[bobothecat]

To me it is logical that since the photos are of his companies work, we are completely in our rights to use the photos.

I'm guessing the actual owners of the house aren't happy with you posting their home's photos?

... and welcome to WebmasterWorld!

[edited by: bobothecat at 11:10 pm (utc) on April 9, 2007]

[jbinbpt]

Hi cpanderson,
Welcome to Webmaster World.

You won't find specific law advice in this forum, but this can be discussed in general terms.
I would not publish the pictures unless I asked permission. I would add a clause to the construction contract that the company maintains a web site and that pictures of the construction may appear on the website.
It seems harmless enough, but never underestimiate how weird people can be.

[Syzygy]

To the best of my extremely limited knowledge of US photography & copyright law, taking photos of buildings when the photographer is on public property is allowed. However, bear in mind that once you step over the threshold of someone's home you are on private property. Permission would be best sought - not only that, it's courteous, too.

Usual disclaimer about me being completely unqualified to provide any advice (legal or otherwise) applies...

Syzygy

[John_Blake]

To the best of my extremely limited knowledge of US photography & copyright law, taking photos of buildings when the photographer is on public property is allowed. However, bear in mind that once you step over the threshold of someone's home you are on private property. Permission would be best sought - not only that, it's courteous, too.

Usual disclaimer about me being completely unqualified to provide any advice (legal or otherwise) applies...

Syzygy

Yes, I have the same information here. Taking building photos when they are public property is not copyright law infringement definitely.

John

[traveldude]

In most cases, the photographer owns the copyright and can post as they wish but when the images are used for commercial purposes the rules change.

The home owners cannot prohibit you from posting the image or using it in promotional materials but if the street number is visible I would blur or erase it.

[Frida]

In most cases, the photographer owns the copyright and can post as they wish but when the images are used for commercial purposes the rules change.

The home owners cannot prohibit you from posting the image or using it in promotional materials but if the street number is visible I would blur or erase it.

Thanks for these details - they'll come very handy to me.