There are two kinds of announcements:

1.  If you intend on using the photo as part of the announcement, such as a picture with the text printed on by the announcement printing company - then I release the copyright to you at no charge.  I do not currently order or print combination announcements so there is no fee for the release.  Either the proof or negative will be released to the announcement or printing  company, whichever they need.  Just call with their fax number and I will get them the release immediately.

2.  If you intend on placing a picture inside your printed announcements, called inserts, then those would be ordered through the studio.  Quantity orders in color, black-and-white, and sepia toned inserts  can be ordered with an approximate turn-around time of 2-3 working days.  Prices vary by quantity.  While most families receive dozens of wedding announcements each year - usually only the inserted photos are kept - something to remember.

Release for Newspapers, Scanning and Printing

è A Copyright Release is free for newspaper announcement publication.

è Scanning proofs for use as personal wallpaper or to be e-mailed to distant family members for the purpose of providing a visual example of the print to facilitate a print order or other similar uses is permitted by verbal permission only.  Enlargements are not to be scanned or copied and to do so is copyright infringement.

è Scanning proofs or enlargements for the purpose of printing or distributing them in anyway is copyright infringement and strictly prohibited.  Illegal copying and printing of Copyrighted Proofs (see the copyright symbol on the back) or enlargements is no different than stealing from me and denying me the opportunity to make a fair living from my photography.  So please, do not copy or scan the proofs.

Release for Stock Images to Magazines or other Media outlets

Media Copyright Releases for image use are available upon request and payment of the required usage fee.  Usage fees are determined by type of use, area of use, and multiple use needs.  Upon commission payment the required release will be granted either through e-mail notification or as part of a submission of images.  Under most situations, the copyright release will cover one-time use of the image only as it applies to its first published intent and will run for an appropriate amount of time.  

Release with Purchase of Negatives

è After 15 months (it varies by type of account), which is generally considered the commercial value of portrait images, you may purchase the negatives or digital files for $1 per negative/file plus shipping/handling and sales tax.  The reproduction rights are then released to you and you may store, print, or distribute the images in any way.  The ability to purchase your negatives is important to future generations and as a method of keeping family histories and archives.  I try to contact everyone prior to shredding or deleting, so if you feel the time period is up, please call to purchase these important images.  However, even with your purchase, I still retain the original copyright and can use those image for business advertising purposes.