Copyrighting a group of photos costs $55 in 2026
Photographers can register a group of published photographs, or a group of unpublished ones, for $55 per application. A single photo costs $45 on the Single Application or $65 on the Standard Application.
Photograph registration fees
| Group of published photographs | $55 |
|---|---|
| Group of unpublished photographs | $55 |
| One photo, Single Application | $45 |
| One photo, Standard Application | $65 |
| Database that mostly consists of photographs | $250 |
| Two group applications (one published set, one unpublished set) | $110 |
|---|
Published and unpublished photos go on separate group applications. In March 2026 the Copyright Office proposed raising its fees. That is only a proposal. The fees on this page are the ones in effect today. Sources: US Copyright Office, Fees.
What this price covers
A group registration covers every photo in the set for one fee, which makes it the cheapest way for photographers to register their work.
What changes your price
- One photo or many. A group costs $55, not $55 per photo.
- Published or not. Each needs its own group application.
Ways to pay less
- Register photos in groups instead of one at a time.
- Register soon after you publish. Timing affects what you can claim in court.
How we got these numbers
Every fee on this page comes from the US Copyright Office, the agency that sets it. Where we show a total, we only add up the agency's own listed fees so you can see the full amount in one place. We do not add our own guesses, and lawyer or filing service fees are not included. Fees can change, so check the agency's website before you pay. We last checked on September 26, 2026.
Common questions
How much does it cost to copyright photos?
$55 for a group, or $45 to $65 for one photo.
Can I copyright many photos at once?
Yes, with a group registration for $55.