Copyright discussions regarding photography, music, movies and other intellectual property are all over the web. Throw a virtual dart at the interwebs (as we say in the studio), and you will probably land on one.

Personally, I have heard a lot of stories about photographer’s images being stolen and used without permission. In fact, I think we all have. But, typically when we hear of these stories, we hear of someone’s photograph being used once somewhere without proper permission or credit. But, the story of Noam Galai created and posted by Fstoppers is something else entirely.

Noam’s photograph was not used once or twice illegally, but literally hundreds of times. From magazines, to political organizations, to large companies, Noam’s photograph was generating buzz and revenue; none of which ever made it back into Noam’s hands.

I wont go into it more as you can see all the details for yourself in the video. But, I do have some thoughts and questions for the community.

It seems that as photographers we have some hypocritical double standards when it comes to the usage of copyrighted work. Most photographers that have been around a while will agree that it is difficult to find a professional photographer who at some point in their career, hasn’t used copyrighted music in their slideshows, advertisements, or other products. Yet, we turn around and get enraged when others use our work without permission. Not to mention, how many of us just as individuals can say that we have never downloaded pirated music, movies, etc.

Instead of being enraged and out for blood, Noam’s viewpoint towards the illegal usage of his imagery is very interesting. It is clear that he doesn’t enjoy large companies illegally making money off of his work. But to Noam, his current situation is better than his image just remaining in his home or on his computer never to be seen. At least this way it is out in the world being viewed by millions. Not many photographers can say the same thing about their work.

Now, I am sure that most of you are probably going to double your “stamping” efforts after reading this article. But, what would you all do if you were in Noam’s shoes. What is your standpoint on the hypocritical double standards that we photographers have?

To see the original post, visit Fstoppers

To connect with Noam, learn more, and even help support him by purchasing some of his products/imagery visit his store at www.thestolenscream.com.

Post Production Pye
Partner ofLin and Jirsa Orange County Wedding Photography

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