Much like a painting or a song, a photograph is a unique creation. When a photographer takes a picture during a photoshoot, they are essentially creating something original, often with the help of various individuals such as models, makeup artists, and stylists.

Now, just like any other creation, the photograph is protected by copyright law. This means that the photographer automatically owns the rights to that image from the moment it's captured. As the creator, they have the sole right to decide how that image can be used, whether it's for commercial purposes like advertising or for personal use like sharing on social media.

However, in many cases, photographers and the individuals involved in the photoshoot may agree to certain terms regarding the usage of the images. This is where licensing comes into play.

Licensing is essentially a legal agreement between the photographer and the other parties involved, outlining how the images can be used. This agreement can cover various aspects such as where and how the images can be published, how long they can be used for, and whether any compensation is required for their usage.

For example, if a model wants to use the images from a photoshoot for their portfolio or to promote themselves on social media, they would need permission from the photographer to do so. This permission is usually granted through a licensing agreement, which may specify that the model can use the images for non-commercial purposes only, or that they must credit the photographer whenever they are used.

Similarly, if a company wants to use the images for advertising or promotional purposes, they would need to obtain a commercial license from the photographer, which may involve paying a fee based on factors such as the intended use, the size of the audience, and the duration of the campaign.

In essence, licensing ensures that everyone involved in the creation of the photograph is fairly compensated for their contribution and that the rights of the photographer as the creator are respected. It provides a legal framework for the usage of the images and helps to protect against unauthorized use or exploitation.