A company is considering whether they need to obtain permission to use a photograph in their marketing materials. The photo was taken by a photographer who passed away 15 years ago, and the copyright on the image was first applied 30 years ago. Is the company required to seek permission to use this photograph?
Practise this PHR HR Exam Prep 2026 question free, then download the PDF, watch the video walkthrough, or unlock timed mock exams for the full web bank.
ANo, the photograph entered the public domain after the photographer's death
BYes, the copyright stands for 120 years after the photographer's death
CNo, the copyright would have expired after 50 years
DYes, the copyright stands 70 years after the photographer's death
✓ Correct answer: D. Yes, the copyright stands 70 years after the photographer's deathAnswer: Yes, the copyright stands 70 years after the photographer's death. The company will need to get permission to use the photograph, as it has not yet entered the public domain. Copyrights protect the work for the life of the creator plus 70 years. A work-for-hire situation would also see protection for 95 years from publication date or 120 years from creation, requiring permission even in such cases.
Keep practising. Use the free PHR HR Exam Prep 2026 PDF, watch the YouTube walkthrough, or unlock all 10 web questions with timed mock exams.