All works are automatically covered by the Copyright, Design and UK Patents act of 1998.
Materials that can be copyrighted:
Film
Games
Animation
Music
Computer Apps
Drawings and Illustrations
What can you Copyright?
Basically anything that has been produced as the result of
independent intellectual effort, or as the result of a collaborative effort.
This includes stories, scripts, lyrics and other literary works
Content produced and hosted in the UK is covered by copyright
You should not:
Copying
Adapting
Distributing (electronically or otherwise)
Public Transmission (including on demand, live or broadcast)
Public Performance (busking etc)
Renting
Lending
without prior, or express permission
Authors also have the right to object is their work is mutilated, defamed or distorted in any way.
Who Owns Copyright?
The author or creator in music, literary or works of drama.
If a film is made the principal director and/or producer own it if it’s a joint effort.
However, if a film for example is made whilst at work the company (employer) would own it.
Illustration - the Creator or Company/Employer
Video Game – Company or Employer or (Creator if an Indie Developer)
Sound or Musical piece – Creator, Publisher/ Producer or Broadcaster if it’s to be distributed or transmitted.
Copyright can be transferred, or sold to another party.
Buying a game, or a painting doesn’t mean you own the copyright. Those rights need legally transferring
Duration varies, but generally for literary and dramatic, artistic and photographic works
Life + 70 years
Copyright - Getting Permission to use
You can contact the owner directly (if known) or contact the organisation or company who represents them eg record company or in the PRS (Performing Rights Society) for music.
Claiming Copyright
I am the author of a piece of work, how do I claim copyright?
If you are in the UK it’s automatic.
If the work is displayed internationally (eg a website)
Mark the website with: ©YourName and Year of Publication
Copyright and the Internet.
International Laws are often different to the UK.
Mark up the footer of your webpages with the
©YourName and Year information.
Any legal action would take place in the country where the infringement took place.
You should also be aware of some of the terms and conditions of social networking and image hosting sites as they may claim ownership over anything you may do.
Don’t let this prevent you from sharing your work
This is a complex area in law and if in doubt seek advice from a professional in this area.
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