New Copyright Rules Could Flip Wedding Photo Ownership
Picture this: you’ve just popped the cork on your big day, and the photographer’s got a stack of memories to share. Under the current law, you automatically own those pictures. But a fresh tweak to Singapore’s Copyright Act is shifting that default to the photographer—unless you negotiate otherwise.
That’s a big deal for anyone planning a wedding or a birthday bash.
Why the Change Matters
- Creators become default owners. Photographers, music producers, graphic designers, and even film directors now hold the original copyright when they’re hired.
- Think of it like being the original artist of the song you commissioned—the same applies to photos.
- People may suddenly find themselves paying extra if they want the rights to keep the pics in their own albums.
What People Are Saying
Murmurs from the Parliament and public comments show a mix of excitement and concerns:
- Mr Lim Biow Chuan worries that without a written contract, the photographer could keep the photos in their portfolio. He’d like a simple template for signed agreements.
- Raj Joshua Thomas warns that folks might get a “rude surprise” paying more to own their own wedding snapshot.
- Some MPs think oral agreements might work but could create disputes where words clash.
Government’s Take
Second Minister for Law Edwin Tong stresses the importance of public education:
- “We’ll explain what urges you can take to retain rights,” he said.
- He admits letting oral agreements slip through could lead to one seller’s word trumping another’s.
- But a written template? That’s on the agenda for future policy tweaks.
Beyond Weddings: Set‑Top Boxes and Piracy
While the main focus centers on photos, another amendment bans set‑top boxes that unlock pirated content. Yet Mr Lim warns that folks might still find ways to get those illegal gadgets from abroad. The ban is slated for the same November launch as the photo rules.
Bottom Line
- The law flips who owns the copyright by default—photographers instead of clients.
- Consumers will need to negotiate or use a contract to keep ownership.
- Public guidelines and possible template agreements are being mooted to help everyone stay clear.
- And just in case you’re eyeing a combo of bad cops and bad freebies, the new set‑top ban aims to shut down illegal streaming gear.
So, as you plan your dreamy photoshoot, remember: it’s not just about a good shot; it’s about who gets to hold the brag‑rights when you flash that selfie later. Stay lit and keep that copyright in your own hands!
Some key changes to Copyright Act
Copyright Rules Are Going Back to School
What the new law says is simple, yet pretty important: if you’re flying around the internet with a viral dance clip, a selfie from a gallery, or any creative bite, the maker must shout out that they’re the mastermind. No one can hide behind the curtain and pass it off as theirs.
Why the artist gets the default crown
- Photographs, portraits, engravings, soundtracks, and movies: The creator is the natural first owner – even if a client hired them. Think of it like the royalty badge.
- Still, during deals you can drop that crown and hand it over. Negotiations are the new hot spot.
Stop the Banned “Pirate Box” Business
If you’re selling a set‑top box that gives smooth access to bootleg movies or TV shows, that’s a NO‑GO now. Every device, app, or service that offers pirated content is instantly out of the game.
Cracking down on the “Errant Retailers”
- Merchants who dangle pirated goodies or grant you a portal to such content now face the same legal heat as the copyright owners.
- They can shot itself in the foot with a lawsuit and stiff penalties.
The law doesn’t simply whisper; it lays the penalties in plain sight. With the “banned” tag on pirate devices and the clear ownership rules, we’re finally putting the heavy hand of copyright behind digital entertainment.
This article was first published in The Straits Times. Permission needed to reproduce.
