Copyright
Every image created by Golightly Studios is protected under United States federal copyright law. This includes all images on this website and every image taken for you at your session or event. Copyright protection begins the moment the photograph is created, according to Title 17 of the United States Code.
Because Golightly Studios creates and edits the images, we are the legal copyright owner of all original photography. This protection helps us ensure that the images we create continue to represent the quality and artistic style you expect.
United States Copyright Law
Federal copyright law protects photographers and their creative works. The most important laws that apply include:
Title 17 U.S.C. Section 102
Defines photography as an original creative work protected at creation
Title 17 U.S.C. Section 106
Gives the photographer exclusive rights to reproduce, publish, display, and prepare derivative works
Title 17 U.S.C. Section 201
Confirms that the creator holds copyright unless rights are transferred in writing
Title 17 U.S.C. Sections 501 and 504
Defines infringement and outlines penalties, which can include statutory damages and attorney fees
These protections exist to support artists and safeguard their creative property.
Your Personal Use License
While we maintain copyright ownership, you receive a personal use license which allows you to:
- View and download images for personal enjoyment
- Share images with family and friends online
- Print images for home decor and albums
- Keep and store your digital files safely
We want you to enjoy your photos freely and proudly.
What is Not Allowed Without Permission
The following uses are not included in personal use and require written approval:
- Commercial or promotional use by a business
- Use by wedding or event vendors
- Publication in advertisements or marketing
- Filtering or altering images in a way that misrepresents our style
- Selling or redistributing the images
- Removing watermarks when present
Unauthorized commercial use can be considered copyright infringement under Title 17 U.S.C. Sections 501 and 504.
Vendor and Commercial Licensing
If a venue, florist, planner, or business partner would like to feature images we created, we are happy to provide licensing that fits their needs. Licensing ensures:
- The correct files are used
- The images are credited properly
- Usage follows copyright law and quality guidelines
A quick email or call is all it takes to get permission.
Why Copyright Exists
Copyright protections:
- Support the creative professionals you hire
- Ensure photography is always represented beautifully
- Help preserve the original storytelling and artistic vision
- Prevent unauthorized distortion or misrepresentation of your images
Our goal is always to protect your memories and the artwork we create together.