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What can a copyright protect?
First, the work itself has to meet some minimum standards to be considered for copyrights. Although the requirements to meet these standards are low, they do have to exhibit some sort of skill in the creation of these works. The work must be in tangible form as well. Meaning the work has to be in some form such as the following:
- A literary work
- Dramatic works, such as plays, including any accompanying music
- Music works such as written music, lyrics and music
- Pantomimes
- Choreographic works such as dance expression
- Pictorial, graphics, sculpture
- Motion pictures, films, screenplays
- Sound recordings,
- Architectural works, such as drawings, sketches.
These categories for what is allowed to be copyrighted is to be taken broadly. Some new aged items may be categorized in some manner of the categories above. It is wish to consult with a professional on what can be copyrighted and when.
Items that can’t be copyrighted are items that are not fixed in a tangible format. Meaning the item is not put down in words or expressed in a format that can be submitted to the U.S. Copyright Office. Title, names, phrases or slogans can’t be copyrighted. These phrases may however be trademarked. Ideas, principles, procedures, concepts and discoveries can’t be copyrighted. These ideas and discoveries may be patented to protect yourself. Finally, works that are derived from common information may not be copyrighted.
Protecting your work is vital to ensure that your work isn’t copied so that other people can’t profit from your work. It is important that you follow the necessary procedure to protect your work. As for most artist, protecting their work means protecting their livelihood. Consulting a professional is always important as well.
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