What's abuzz in the photography world this month?
1. Reuters
On Sept. 5, 2024, the UK, US, and EU member states signed the AI Convention, the first international treaty on the safe use of AI. Adopted in May after extensive negotiations with 57 countries, it focuses on human rights protection and responsible AI innovation. The Council of Europe, with 46 member states, led the drafting. The treaty differs from the EU AI Act, which regulates AI within the EU. The UK will work with stakeholders to implement the new regulations.
2. Fair Licensing
Photographer Robert Kneschke is suing LAION e.V. for copyright infringement, alleging his images were used without permission in their dataset of over 5 billion images for AI training, violating German copyright law. LAION e.V. contends that their actions are legally covered under exceptions for "text and data mining" and scientific research. The case, which may set a precedent for AI training and copyright, is being closely monitored and a ruling is expected on Sept. 27, 2024.
3. Euronews.
An original print of Yousuf Karsh's 1941 portrait of Winston Churchill, The Roaring Lion, has been found in Italy after disappearing in Canada two years ago. The photo, stolen from the Fairmont Château Laurier hotel in Ottawa in 2021, was unknowingly purchased by a buyer in Genoa at a Sotheby’s auction. The print, famous for Churchill’s scowl, will be returned to Canada. The Roaring Lion launched Karsh’s career and remains one of the most iconic images of the 20th century.
4. PetaPixel
Wendy Halsted Beard, owner of the Wendy Halsted Gallery in Michigan, was sentenced to over five years in prison for a wire fraud scheme targeting elderly photography collectors. Between 2019 and 2022, Beard sold over 100 fine art photographs on consignment but kept the proceeds or failed to return unsold works, with losses totaling around $1.6 million. Works by renowned photographers like Diane Arbus, Richard Avedon, and Ansel Adams were involved.
5. Digital Camera World
JThe Lives of Lee Miller by Anthony Penrose re-released alongside the new film starring Kate Winslet, offers a captivating look at the life of photographer Lee Miller. Written by her son, the biography traces her journey from a Vogue model in 1920s New York to an acclaimed photographer and war correspondent. Miller’s powerful images, including those from the liberation of Dachau, showcase her boldness and bravery. The book explores her many roles and lasting impact on photography.
Would you also like to learn more about Photography Copyright? We invite you to check out the Fair Licensing Copyright Guide.
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That's all for now. See you next time!