Can you give me an example of copyright work that qualify for copyright protection?

Copyright protection is available for original works of authorship fixed in any tangible medium of expression. What this means is the person seeking copyright protection must be the original author and he or she has to write, publish or record the idea in a way that can be reproduced. An example of copyright works that are commonly copyrighted include an entire book, a sound recording, and accompanying music for a song.

Copyright is helpful in protecting your original work against copyright infringement. If someone tries to pass your work off as their own, you can file copyright infringement, and file a lawsuit against that person.

Scope of Copyright Protection

Three examples of copyrights work eligible for copyright protection are:

• Literary, musical, graphic, and sculptural works;
• Motion pictures and other audio-visual works;
• Derivatives of protected works, such as a sequel (i.e. the Star Wars movies);
• Original compilations of facts, such as a field guide.

This means that an author of fiction and someone who writes the equivalent of a Lonely Planet travel guide can copyright their work, as long as it is original, and be the copyright owner.

Works lacking in originality are not eligible for copyright protection. This includes: works and publications from the United States government, facts and unoriginal collections of facts, like a telephone directory and items in the public domain.

This last one can be tricky, but a simple example of an item in the public domain is a recipe. This is why five different chefs can all publish apple pie recipes. For those interested in computer-related copyrights, freeware cannot be copyrighted. Shareware and original software can be protected.

Copyright Holder’s Rights

While it is advisable to register your copyright, this is not necessary. The moment a work is fixed in a tangible medium, it is protected under copyright law. As a copyright holder, you have the exclusive right to copy, distribute, display and perform your work. Anyone wanting to use a copyrighted work has to get permission. Penalties for unauthorized use can include monetary damages.

Additional Copyright Protection Information

The government has a designated office for registering and protecting copyrights. The U.S. Copyright Office (https://www.copyright.gov/) has information on registering, protecting and enforcing copyrights. The office also publishes materials explaining copyright law.

Case Studies: Examples of Copyrightable Works

Case Study 1: Literary Work

John, an aspiring author, has written a captivating novel. This original literary work falls under copyright protection. John is the rightful copyright owner and can prevent others from copying or distributing his novel without permission.

Case Study 2: Musical Composition

Emily, a talented musician, has composed a beautiful piece of music. Her musical composition, including the sheet music and accompanying lyrics, qualifies for copyright protection. Emily holds the exclusive rights to reproduce, perform, and distribute her musical creation.

Case Study 3: Motion Picture

Steven, a filmmaker, has directed and produced a thought-provoking movie. The entire audiovisual work, including the screenplay, dialogues, scenes, and soundtrack, is eligible for copyright protection. Steven has the authority to control the reproduction, distribution, and public performance of his motion picture.