As a writer and photographer, I have dealt with copyright issues and questions for nearly all of my professional life. From my first copyright law class in college to daily explanations as a professional photographer, I have needed to keep current with what is happening in the world of copyright and to be able to explain it to my clients and colleagues.

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions I get about copyright.

What is copyright?

A copyright is the means by which legal protection is given to creators of original works of literature and art. This includes music, photography, books, poetry, movies, plays, computer software, architecture, sculpture and other similar creative works. It can also protect the contents of your website.

Copyright does not protect names (including domain names), slogans, titles or short phrases. Those items would need to be trademarked to receive protection. Sometimes it can protect logos. And it does not protect ideas or concepts.

What does it mean when something is copyrighted?

Copyright gives the creator of the work the exclusive right to reproduce, display or perform their work and to authorize who else may do those things. For example, when I take a photograph, regardless of who or what is in it, I have the right to decide who may or may not make copies of that photograph and how they may use it. If a songwriter writes a song, they have the right to decide who may or may not perform or publish that song.

When is a work considered copyrighted?

Any work covered by US law is considered covered the moment it is created. To be eligible to recover statutory damages for copyright infringement, however, the work must be registered with the US Copyright Office. Your work does not have to be published to be protected. It also does not need to have a notice or the little © symbol on it to be protected. For example, a photograph that does not have the © is still protected and cannot be copied or published without the photographer’s permission, even if it is a picture of you.

How long does a copyright last?

While there have been different periods of protection over the years, for works created after January 1978, copyright lasts for the life of the creator plus 70 years. There are some different rules for works copyrighted under a pseudonym or works for hire, but using the above as a rule of thumb is a good starting point for staying out of trouble.

How do I register my copyright?

You can register your work with the United States Copyright Office by mail or online. For complete registration information visit the Electronic Copyright Office.

What is a copyright release?

A release of copyright gives up all rights to a work. While this term is frequently used, copyright releases are exceptionally rare. Most of the time, when someone refers to a copyright release, they usually mean a usage license.

What is a usage license?

A usage license grants the right to use a specific work while allowing the copyright holder to retain his or her rights. Most usage licenses grant specific permissions and/or may be good for a specific period of time. Usage licenses can be perpetual or can be for a one-time use, but always leaves the control of the work with the creator.

What do I do if someone uses my copyrighted work without permission?

Call an attorney. Copyright violations are generally protected under civil law, not criminal, but in any case, for specific legal advice, you need to contact an attorney. Disclaimer: I am not an attorney and I do not play one online. I am not dispensing legal advice. I have an awesome attorney who does that for me. If you’re in business, you should have one, too.

For more information on US Copyright law and procedures, visit the Copyright Office online .

Do you have any questions about copyrights or licensing? Leave them in the comment section below.