Licensing + Copyright, Explained
Last updated: September 6, 2025
All images created by Stacy Markow Photography/Markow Media Group, LLC are protected under U.S. Copyright Law and registered with the U.S. Copyright Office. Copyright is automatically granted at the moment of creation to the person who created the work (moi), meaning I always own the rights to my work.
Unauthorized use of my images is strictly prohibited. Markow Media Group, LLC actively pursues unlicensed usage to the full extent of the law, including recovery of usage fees, loss of revenue, punitive damages, and legal costs. Using images without permission will result in legal action.
If you are interested in licensing images for your business, please reach out through my Contact Form linked here.
What is a License?
When you work with me, you’re not purchasing images, you’re purchasing a license to use the images we create together. That license grants you specific usage rights.
Think of it like other everyday examples:
Car rentals → You don’t own the car, but you’re granted permission to drive it for a specific time and under specific conditions.
Software → You don’t own Microsoft Word or Adobe Photoshop, you purchased a desktop license to use the software on your computer.
Music and movies → You don’t own the song when you stream it or the film when you watch it, you’ve licensed access for personal use.
Photography works the exact same way. The copyright always remains with the creator of the work, and the license outlines exactly how you (and any collaborators) can use the images.
Why is it Like This?
Because copyright is protected by the United States Constitution. Article I, Section 8 gives Congress the power:
“To promote the Progress of Science and useful Arts, by securing for limited Times to Authors and Inventors the exclusive Right to their respective Writings and Discoveries.”
This clause is the foundation of U.S. copyright law. It ensures that artists, creators, and inventors, whether they’re writers, musicians, filmmakers, artists, inventors or photographers, have control over how their work is used and can be compensated for its value.
In short: you don’t buy the copyright itself. You buy a license that allows you to use the photos under clearly defined terms.
Why This Matters
Photographers are often pressured - even bullied - into “just handing over the files” or giving away copyright. This not only undermines our profession, it creates an unfair playing field:
Big brands with large budgets profit off imagery they didn’t pay to create or license, while we pay for their products and services featured.
Designers, architects, and brands who do things properly get clear, legal rights to use the images without fear of infringement.
Image theft is prevented, people who didn’t do the work or invest in the photoshoot don’t get to benefit from the results.
Creatives can continue to create at the highest level without being taken advantage of, because their work is properly valued.
Respecting copyright isn’t about making things complicated, it’s about protecting the value of creative work for all parties involved.
Licensing Structure
Every project quote includes creative production, photoshoot day, and images licensed based on how they’ll be used. This ensures usage rights are clear, fair, and tailored to your growing business needs.
Web + Digital Use
Covers use on your website, portfolio platforms, blogs, email newsletters, and social media. Ideal for showcasing your work online and building brand presence.
Print Use
Extends rights to printed marketing materials such as brochures, look books, postcards, mailers, signage, and other collateral produced by your business.
Editorial + Awards Submissions
Allows submission of images to magazines, online publications, design blogs, and award programs. Credit and backlinks to the photographer is required when images are published.
Advertising
Covers use of images in paid campaigns, including print ads, digital ads, social media ads, POS, out-of-home displays, and sponsored placements.
PR + Publicist Distribution
Allows publicists, PR firms, and agencies working on your behalf to distribute images to editorial outlets or third parties for press coverage and promotional opportunities.
Unlimited License (Custom Quoted)
Provides the broadest coverage. Includes all of the above, plus usage by vendors, manufacturers, or brand partners involved in your project. Custom quoted based on scope and number of images.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns the copyright to the images?
I always retain copyright to my work. When you book a session, you are purchasing my creative expertise, time on set, and a license to use the images, not the copyright itself.
What happens if I use images without a license?
Unauthorized use is a copyright violation. I actively monitor and pursue unlicensed use, which may result in legal action, recovery of usage fees, cease and desist letters, and additional damages.
Can vendors, manufacturers, or brand partners use the images from my project?
They either need to purchase a license for their usage from me directly, or I can custom quote you an Unlimited License and add them to the project for approved usage. This ensures all usage is fair and legally protected.
Do I get editorial and awards submissions included?
Yes, both are included in the Standard License as long as credit is given. If a PR firm or publicist is distributing on your behalf, an Extended License is required.
Can I buy out the copyright?
No. Copyright is never for sale. What you purchase is a license tailored to your needs.
What if I only need a few images?
Each project begins with a creative production and shooting fee and then you license only the images you need. This makes your investment flexible and scalable to your goals.