High-street chain Currys has refused to amend controversial photo competition rules despite complaints that they exploit photographers? rights.
The contest challenges entrants to ‘capture a snapshot of British life’, and will be judged by TV presenter Lisa Snowdon.
Amateur Photographer magazine quizzed the electrical retailer after complaints from readers that the terms represent a ?rights grab?.
The rules suggest that organisers have the right to publish entries in any way they like without seeking the photographer?s consent. Picture use is not limited to publication in connection with the photo competition.
The terms state: ?You grant us a worldwide, non-exclusive, perpetual, royalty-free licence to publish or otherwise use the Material in any way, for any purpose and at any time we want.?
Among those incensed by the terms is Cumbria-based photography enthusiast Roger Christie who, in letter to AP, wrote: ?To paraphrase [the rules], ?you own the copyright to your photos but it is entirely worthless because we can do whatever we please with them for ever and for nowt!? He added: ?No surprise then that I?ve now gone off the competition.?
In response Currys released a statement which reads: ?With regard to the terms and conditions clause we strongly believe that the benefits of entering this competition – including the chance to have your entry exhibited at an exclusive London gallery together with the prize of a £10,000 holiday – are great reasons to get involved.?
An AP website forum user, using the name ?Northern Nikon?, said he had considered entering this image posted here, in protest over the rules.
The store added: ?The aim of the Currys ?Our Lives? competition is to encourage members of the public to develop their digital photography skills and, with the help of our experts? advice, get the best out of the equipment they own or are thinking of purchasing?
?Last year?s competition attracted over 35,000 entries of an excellent standard and we hope to build on that success this year.?
