Why is my order held for copyright? How can I have it printed?

dotphoto protects the rights of professional photographers who have copyrighted their photos in compliance with U.S. law. This is especially obvious when a studio adds its logo or copyright statement to the front of the photo, but can also be true for other photos -- especially news photos. Photos published after 1922, but before 1978 are protected for 95 years from the date of publication. If the photo was created, but not published, before 1978, the copyright lasts for the life of the author plus 70 years.

dotphoto's Terms of Service state that, by using the service, you claim copyright on the photos that you upload and print. However, if a photo appears to be owned by a professional photographer, we may hold your order pending the establishment of your ownership.

I own the copyright. How can I have my order printed?

If your order is held, please download the attached Copyright Release, and ask your photographer to sign it. If you have purchased the copyright yourself, you may sign this form. Scan or take a photo of the signed form, and email it dotphoto support at support@dotphoto.com along with your dotphoto order number. 

We are sorry if this causes a delay in your order, but it is necessary to protect the rights of photographers and to enforce the law.