Photo Copyright Registration Workflow

Photo Copyright Registration Workflow

Author: Steve Brazill November 29, 2018 Duration: 37:38

I have had the pleasure of having The Copyright Zone guys on Behind the Shot twice now, each time I learn something new. The first time Ed Greenberg and Jack Reznicki were on, back in June of 2017, we chatted at length about Copyright for Photographers (here). It was a general conversation on things all photographers should have a better understanding of. The feedback I got back then was amazing, and I had Jack on right afterwards for a normal Behind the Shot show – that show is here.

In February of 2018 the U.S. Copyright office made some changes to how you register your photos, so once again the Copyright Zone guys came back to explain those changes, and a lot more. We discuss recent legal cases, process, and general copyright for photographers. That show aired in October of 2018 and can be seen here.

Following that latest show someone reached out to me on Twitter with a suggestion. Steve Carlson (@SteveCarlsonSF) wrote:

“Your recent episode with the Copyright Zone guys has reminded me that I’d still love to see a blog post from you that details your process for registering photos!”

Great idea Steve, I am not much of a blog post written, so I hope it’s ok if I did a video instead. Also… Steve is a great photographer too, so go follow him.

As you are watching this video please keep in mind that this is just how I do it. I am not saying it’s the right way, the best way, or how you should do it. I am sure there are areas I will refine overtime, but for now this works really well for me, and it’s easily repeatable.

I also want to take a second to thank Jack Reznicki. After recording this video I reached out Jack to ask him to “proof” it for me – I don’t know anyone else more qualified to tell me when I’m wrong. Jack had a few great suggestions for things to add, so I redid it. After Jack checked it again another one or two things showed up and I added those. Because of Jack I am feeling pretty good about the end result (until the internet gets to it that is).

Join me as I take you on a walkthrough of my Photo Copyright Registration Workflow on this episode of Behind the Shot. The links I mention during the show are all listed below for you too.

Connect with Steve

Personal: stevebrazill.com
Facebook: @SteveBrazillPhotography
Instagram: @SteveBrazill

U.S Copyright Office Links

Website: copyright.gov
Registration Portal: Registration Login
Photography: Photography Related Links

Application Previews:

Preview the Application for Group Registration of Unpublished Photographs
Preview the Application for Group Registration of Published Photographs

Application Templates:

Unpublished Photographs Title List Template
Published Photographs Title List Template

LR/Transporter Lightroom Plugin

Photographer’s Toolbox: LR/Transporter

Ed Greenberg & Jack’s Reznicki

Website: TheCopyrightZone.com
The Copyright Zone Book: Amazon


Steve Brazill hosts Behind the Shot-Video, a series that goes far beyond gear lists and camera settings. Each conversation is a deep exploration of the creative and technical journey behind compelling images. You’ll hear working photographers unpack the entire process-from the initial spark of an idea and the challenges of the location to the critical decisions made in post-production. This podcast sits at the unique intersection of art and practical technology, offering tangible lessons for anyone looking to improve their visual storytelling. Rather than abstract theory, these discussions provide a real-world look at problem-solving under pressure and the artistic choices that define a signature style. Tune in for honest, detailed breakdowns that reveal how memorable shots are truly built, layer by layer. It’s an essential resource for visual artists seeking both inspiration and actionable knowledge, all grounded in the lived experience of accomplished creators.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 200

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