Copyrighting is a precautionary measure, and it guarantees your work is safe and protected from people who commit fraud. Although technically, your art is protected as soon as you produce it, it's a great idea to claim your work legally. Copyrighting your work isn't hard to do, but so many artists don't do it or don't know how to do it.
There's a myth that the "poor man's copyright," is the right way for artists without funds to secure the safety of their work. It is not. The best way for you to secure your art is by going through the proper channels.
Before you begin searching for those channels, here's what you'll need to know about copyright.
What Does It Protect?
Copyrighting protects your work in its written, audio, and visual form. That means if you have any movies, poetry or books, videos, or composite materials like songs or music, you can protect it by copyrighting it. Don't get crazy and try to protect things like sightings and thoughts. You can't do that, but there are ways around things like that. If you draw out or write down a description of your sighting or thought, it then becomes visual or written material giving it grounds to become eligible for copyright material.
Copyrights vs. Trademarking
The difference between copyrighting your work and trademarking your work is a thin line. While copyrighting your work protects your written, audio, and visual work, trademarking protects any words, phrases, logos, or any other branding materials identifying as your own.
How Do I Register?
Registering is pretty easy. All you have to do is fill out the application. There's also a fee that you have to pay. When you register, you'll have to send your original work in and will not be able to get it back as it will be in government files for safekeeping. You can file online by using the electronic Copyright Office.
See? Simple and easy. Make sure your original works has the time and date on it and is ready to be secured as soon as possible. Remember that securing your art will ensure you're good to go and won't have anything to worry about if a time comes and legal action needs to ensue. For more information about how to copyright your work go to www.copyright.gov
If you have any other questions about copyrights or trademarking, drop a line in the comment section, and I'll be happy to answer any questions you have.
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