Step 1

Prepare your work. Ensure your image is original, complete, and
meets copyright eligibility requirements. Save your work in a
digital format such as JPEG, PNG, or TIFF, and ensure the file
is of high quality for submission.

Step 2

Visit the U.S. Copyright Office Website. Navigate to
https://www.copyright.gov.
Access the “Register a Copyright” section and select the “Visual
Arts” category, which applies to photographs, graphic designs,
and illustrations.

Step 3

Create an account. Register for an account on the Electronic
Copyright Office (eCO) portal. This will allow you to manage
your application and track its progress. Provide accurate and
up-to-date contact details to avoid delays in communication.

Step 4

Complete the application. Provide detailed information about
your work, including the title, a brief description, and the
date of creation. Specify whether your work is unpublished or
published. If published, include the exact date and location of
publication to avoid errors. Indicate whether you are
registering a single image or a collection of works.

Step 5

Pay the filing fee. Pay the applicable filing fee, which is $45
for a single image and may vary for collections. Verify current
fees on the U.S. Copyright Office website. Payments can be made
securely via credit card or other accepted methods.

Step 6

Upload your work. Submit a digital copy of your image as part of
the application. Ensure the file meets the specified format,
size, and resolution requirements. Double-check the uploaded
file to confirm accuracy and completeness.

Step 7

Receive confirmation. After submission, you will receive a
confirmation email summarizing your application details and
providing a reference number. This confirmation serves as proof
of submission while your application is processed.

Step 8

Monitor your registration. Log in to your eCO account to check
the status of your application. Processing times typically range
from three to eight months. Once approved, you will receive an
official certificate of registration by mail or electronically.