BenW

Copyright protects "creative expression" including the written word. You'd have to register a writing just like a photo if you wanted to sue for infringement.

17 USC 102 defines the subject matter of copyright and distinguishes copyrights from patents.

Jimbo205

I hope this question goes along with this 'old but good' thread.

If I see a photo that I like and I would like to possibly at my house ( I am not there currently on my home PC)
download a photo and possibly go to the trouble of printing it out on Kodak Paper and put it up on a wall in my house for my private use;

What are the rules?

Can I do this?

Do I HAVE to ask permission FIRST? (of the person that posted the photo)

Or is it just good etiquette?

Yoshi

I don't see why you can't use it for "private use" like you mentioned.

The purpose for protecting your photos is to prohibit someone from somehow using it to their advantage (i.e. using it to make money, etc.). If you're just using it as a reference or collecting pictures of your favorite tanks, I don't think you would be breaking any rules.

Jimbo205

Daniel, thank you. I just wanted to check. There is always something to learn and check on in this hobby.

I am one of those guys that if you can, you can; if you can't, you can't.

Kind of like the USDA rules on invasive plants and customs. If I am not supposed to have a plant in my state (if it is considered invasive or harmful to my environment) then I respect that. I haven't burned a plant yet, but would if I should (probably).

I like the idea of being able to enjoy some beautiful photos for my home use. That fits my budget.

And this way if I actually print them and put them on my walls, when my wife and kids tell me that I am obsessed with this hobby I can say, "Yes, I am. Beautiful photo isn't it?"

Daniel, I love your Avatar. Yoshi seems like a really good guy for a character. Good taste.