Heritage vs Photography Rights

In the UK, the National Trust and English Heritage claim that they own the rights to images of historic properties that they own or manage, even Stonehenge, even if taken from the air or across the street. It is turning into an international story, with anti-copyright activists at BoingBoing titling their post "English Heritage claims it owns every single image of Stonehenge, ever."

I wonder if this is the case in Canada. Could we be missing a big revenue stream for heritage, or would we just offend every photographer in the Province, like it is doing in Britain?

Comments

[Steven Draper]

Don't go there - its one aspect of heritage that England has got wrong, I understand that even one of the official English Heritage photographer resigned in protest.

Most photographers that have heritage buildings within their images are doing a great deal to promote the reasons why they must remain part of our landscape. Make them pay for the right to support Heritage and you'll lose all that free publicity and support.

I'm from the UK originally and the rights issue is a mess.

[Kayla]

I agree, photographers can be seen as allies. They love photographing historic buildings and bring attention to those that are decaying. We should be asking how can be capitalize on this relationship, not monetize it.

[MBT outlet]

I agree with your idea.You look like very talented.It is very happy to meet you. Thank you!