Technically speaking the minute you create a unique work, it is already copyrighted material. The big difference between that and obtaining a formal copyright on a work is the amount of damages you’re eligible to receive in court if someone infringes on your work. (With no copyright in place, you have to prove actual financial damage, which can be difficult. With a registered copyright in place you’re eligible for statutory damages numbering anywhere from $750 to $30,000 — and up to $150,000 in some instances).

Question: If you take a photo of a person in public do you need their permission/okay before you can make money from it?

Late 80’s through the mid-90’s I dabbled with photography. Now, 30+ years later, I’ve purchased a Canon T6i. I love these new cameras and they are so easy to use. I can’t stop taking photos. I take my camera with me everywhere.

You’re welcome, Mia! There’s definitely an added element of “work” where you have to track down the sites willing to pay to license your photos, but if you’re consistent and submit several photos a month across several sites, it can definitely result in some passive income/licensing royalties down the road!