Copyright Law in Photographic Works

Authorship, Originality, and Protection

Faisal Alamri

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Hardback

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English

Routledge
25 July 2025

Photography & photographs; Intellectual property law; Copyright law

Series: Routledge Research in Intellectual Property

This book presents an original theory of copyright authorship tailored for photographic works, grounded in the concepts of categorical intention, channelled selection, and causation. By addressing the unique dual nature of photography, where mechanical processes intersect with creative choices, it offers a fresh perspective on a longstanding legal challenge.

Through a critical examination of select case law with a focus on Anglo-American law, the book highlights the complexities and inconsistencies in the current copyright protection for photographs due to their dual nature, which exhibits both mechanical and creative characteristics. It argues for moving beyond the conventional one-size-fits-all approach for copyright concepts in favour of adopting a tailored, contextual approach that acknowledges the nature and characteristics of the category of work in question. The book also alludes to emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning models, considering their implications for copyright and creative expression. It also discusses how the history of copyright protection of photographic works may illuminate the path towards dealing with conflicts between copyright and perceived mechanical mediums of creative expression.

This book will be of interest to researchers in copyright law and intellectual property law, especially those engaged with the legal treatment of mechanically produced creative works. It offers valuable insights into the evolving relationship between law, technology, and authorship in the digital age.

By: Faisal Alamri
Imprint: Routledge
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 234mm, Width: 156mm,
ISBN: 9781032952635
ISBN 10: 1032952636
Series: Routledge Research in Intellectual Property
Pages: 274
Publication Date: 25 July 2025
Audience: College/higher education , Further / Higher Education
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

1. Introduction 2. The Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works and Photographic Works 3. The United Kingdom and Photographs 4. The United States of America and Photographs 5. Authorship and Photographs 6. The Concept of Originality 7. Originality and Copyright Protection in Photographs in Anglo-American Copyright Law 8. The Impact of the Digital Age on Photography and Copyright 9. The Way Forward for Photographic Copyright? A Focus on Copyright Authorship 10. An Original Two-Tier System for Copyright in Photographic Works 11. Conclusion

Faisal Alamri is an Assistant Professor of Law, specialising in Intellectual Property Law. He holds a PhD in Intellectual Property Law from the University of Leeds and has a strong academic and research background in copyright and trademark law. His work bridges the gap between theory and practice, offering fresh insights into the evolving landscape of intellectual property rights. Recently appointed as the Director of Scientific Publishing and Scientific Societies at Taibah University, he remains actively engaged with researchers across many fields. His expertise reflects a passion for intellectual property rights, legal education, and research.