When does a craft or hobby become a business? When is a
young entrepreneur recognized as such? Family members can laugh at that first
prototype, but in time, good work is recognized as such.
My daughter, Melodie, has an interest in photography. She
has taken some really nice nature shots, and put together greeting card gift
sets. She has sold a few. Melodie has volunteered her services for political
and other non-profit photo shoots. She has been building name recognition and
skill. She has also learned that people will use her work without permission,
and that she needs to keep an eye out for pirating of her photos.
Two days ago, Melodie came to me with a problem. One of
her pictures showed up on a local politician’s Facebook page. No credits. No
permissions. Just a commodity to screen capture and use.
Melodie immediately messaged the candidate with a request
to take the picture down. Many hours
later, the picture is still a pirated commodity. The following exchange took
place.
Is this a problem worth publishing? Yes.
1. There are laws that make sure photographers get paid appropriately
for their work. This is a violation of copyright law. This official is
unwilling to consider that he may have made a mistake. Not only is copyright
law being ignored, but a work ethic is being squashed.
2. Public pressure is a lot cheaper than a lawsuit. This
is an effort to call out a bullying tactic and bring it to an end.
3. Elected public officials represent us, and deserve our
respect. They also must give an accounting for their actions. By his actions
here, a County Council member has raised serious questions about his integrity.
If a “little matter” gets this kind of treatment, will big issues fare any
better.
4. Frankly, I thought that Ken Mann had more interest in
building up businesses and jobs. What do
you think? Is it a business win - win to use a photo without clearing credits,
and then try to bully the photographer into silence or a foolish statement?
Perhaps Ken is using this photo on other campaign media materials, and not
using the photo may cost more than just an apology.
It is just a photo. It is just a campaign message. After
the campaign, we’ll all be friends again, right? Validated by popular vote, Ken
will preside with dignity. Really!
Should anyone trust him with their vote? You decide.
*UPDATE* As of now, 8:33 AM - 10/14/13, the picture has been taken down.
