Expert: Jim Boyd - 10/24/2007

Question
Hey Jim,
I have a question concerning pictures of pornstars modelling on websites. I am interested in finding out how I can use a picture of a pornstar for a project such as a magazine. Are all of these pictures copyright material. I know for instance if I am looking to put a nice picture of Jenna Jameson in a magazine and it has been taken from a photo shoot done by all internal then it must have copyright laws. who can I go to in order to use some pictures of these porn stars without running in trouble with the law? can I buy the rights to use or do I just have to contact the right people

Thanks,
Chris

Answer
Hi Chris,


Are all of these pictures copyright material?

Yes, any images/video you find on a website are going to be protected by copyright and MAY NOT be used with out the expressed written consent of the copyright holder.

Who can I go to in order to use some pictures of these porn stars without running in trouble with the law?

This is going to depend on who owns the copyrights. Most of the time the copyright is owned by the person who produced the material. However, in some cases the models will retain the rights to their images. It really depends on what type of armaments were made between the producer and the model. In either case ONLY the copyright owner can grant permission for you to use the images.

Can I buy the rights to use?

Yes you can. IF you can figure out who owns the copyright, then there is a possibility that you can make arrangements to purchase a few of the images and get permission to use them.


DO NOT use images taken from web sites without first seeking legal consent.

Jim Boyd