These days, photographers are likely to find one or more of their images used without permission. One defense is often that it is a “fair use.” The challenge is determining whether the unauthorized use is an infringement or fair use. While only a court of law can make that decision, understanding what makes a use “fair” will help you protect your work.

The U.S. Copyright Office recently began beta testing for its new "eCO" (electronic Copyright Office) web-based registration system. Joseph J. Delconzo, a professional news photographer signed up for the testing.

Copyright infringement is much too common these days. To reap the big statutory rewards (of at least $750 and up to $150,000 for willful infringements, plus costs and attorneys’ fees) from prosecuting infringements, you must have registered your photograph with the U.S. Copyright Office prior to the infringement or within three months of publishing it (making it available to the public).

Marketing is easily the most befuddling aspect of the photography business that people just can't seem to get. Whether art directors who might hire you, ad agencies who license your photos, or art buyers who buy your prints, how to get noticed by clients is the holy grail to building a successful photo business. There are copious books on the subject espousing the best ways for photographers to promote themselves, whether it's through their websites, or creating photo portfolios, and all of them give very similar (if not identical) advice: push yourself out to the market by trying to establish direct contact with clients.