The New York Times reports on the copyright issues photographers face: "Technological advances, shifting artistic values and dizzying spikes in art prices have turned the world of visual arts into a boxing ring for intellectual-property rights disputes. Photographers, in particular, are complaining not only that their work is being stolen by other artists, but also that their ability to create new work related to their originals is also being compromised." At issue is whether fair use protects must of that alleged infringement. Mickey H. Osterreicher, general counsel for the National Press Photographers, told the Times they would like to see a small-claims copyright board created by Congress to resolve the bulk of disputes, most of which are in the range of a few hundred dollars. But Osterreicher also said that a legislative fix isn't likely anytime soon.
Lawyer and Legal Journalist
