Expert: Shannon Moore - 11/8/2009

Question
What is the easiest way to determine if an image is copyrighted,
and what is the best and most legally sound way to get permission to use a copyrighted image?
(The reason for this is to make relative size diagrams of various extinct and living animals from inividual images, to be used in a not-for profit website.  This would be done while giving credit to the original images and image creators, if possible.)

Answer
Dear Jeremy,

My apologies for the delay in getting back to you. We've restructured our email & we're still working out the kinks.

The easiest way is to check with the US Copyright Office directly, which can be done at http://www.copyright.gov/records/

Hope this helps! Please let me know if I can assist you with any other questions.

Warmest regards,
Shannon Moore
http://www.tmexpress.com
http://tmexpress.blogspot.com
Twitter @TradeMarkExpres