As far as I know, that photo belongs to the couple therein. Whoever took the photo might have permission to use the photo for their site (the couple probably signed a form to that effect before the wedding), but that's about it. The photo was altered and used without permission, so the couple could totally sue, and hopefully will win.
I'm laughing at the irony - I KNEW these anti-gay groups were secretly trolling the internet looking for gay people. I just KNEW it.
It works the opposite direction. The photo's copyright belongs to the photographer. The couple still has standing to sue, but I'd think it would be beneficial to try and bring the photographer into it as well - sort of a double whammy.
Is that so? I thought the couple had ultimate authority over the photo. Thanks for the correction. At any rate, the photographer is part of the suit.
^Was just about to post with the same quote. The photographer was already involved. I hope they do sue and win, because I see no reason for them not to win. Changing the background of a photo from the original does not transfer property ownership as many people seem to think, so truly the only chance I see the case losing...is if the judge is a complete moron.
Just curious. If, say, I'm on a trip with my friends and we want to take a picture of all of us, so we ask some passerby to take a picture for us with our camera. So who owns the copyright of that photo?
You do. Unless that random passer by happens to be a professional photographer and even then you would have to agree to the photographer having the copyright.
I have to agree with Gravity lol re: the irony. I hope they get them for every penny they have. There is so reason for hate.
i would suggest that the copyright would transfer to the couple, shouldn't it? Assuming they hired a paid photographer, one would assume that as part of the purchasing of the labour would also come the rights to the photographs. For example, i would imagine they would have the right to refuse to allow the photographer to use the photographs in his résumé or publish elsewhere without permission etc, as part of the contract?
But a professional might not take your picture unless they are given certain rights to the photo- it's usually limited to "I have the right to use it to promote my business" sort of stuff.
