Posted By:
Chris StufflestreetI just read in another thread about how it is illegal to reprint Topps cards, and I'm not about to argue that point. The question I want to pose is about how much latitude one has in reproducing card images.
For example, let's say I write a book about vintage baseball cards. I will want to use photos, and I have the cards in my own collection that I'd like to include as illustrations. Are these images copyrighted? Or are they considered "fair use" if you own the card?
My second part of the question is, if permission is needed before the image can be used, who do I need to contact in the case of a defunct card company? While Topps is still around, I don't believe anybody from Goudey or the American Tabacco Company is going to be able to give consent.
Finally, how does that translate to internet use? I have a web site devoted entirely to vintage baseball cards, and have a bunch of images. I'd be curious to find out whether I should be barricading my doors to prevent a possible swarm of Topps' lawyers.
BTW...if you're interested, my website URL is:
http://www.geocities.com/chrisstufflestreet/
And no, I'm not trying to sell anything on my site. It's for reference and information only.