Introduction
Copyright is one of the most important aspects of intellectual property law, protecting creators’ original works from being copied, distributed, or exploited without permission. It covers a wide range of creative expressions such as literature, music, films, software, photographs, and even architectural designs. While many people know that copyright exists, fewer understand how it applies in practice. That’s where real-world illustrations come in handy.
In this article, we’ll look at 10 examples of copyright that explain how the law works across different types of creative works. By exploring these cases, you’ll see not only what copyright protects, but also how it impacts everyday life, business, and culture.
1. Books and Written Literature
One of the most traditional and well-known examples of copyright is in the field of literature. When an author writes a book, novel, poem, or article, it is automatically protected by copyright as soon as it is written and fixed in a tangible form.
For example, the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling is protected under copyright law. No one can legally copy, distribute, or publish these works without permission from the copyright holder. Fan fiction or summaries may sometimes fall under fair use, but reproducing the text in full or publishing unauthorised versions would be a violation.
This demonstrates the first of our 10 examples of copyright—protecting the rights of authors to control the use of their literary works.
2. Music and Sound Recordings
Music is another area where copyright protection is extremely important. When a composer writes a song, the lyrics and melody are both protected. Additionally, when a musician records that song, the sound recording itself also has separate copyright protection.
For example, The Beatles’ songs are copyrighted. Even though many decades have passed since their release, rights are still controlled by music companies and the estates of the band members. Using their songs in commercials, films, or YouTube videos without a license would count as copyright infringement.
Thus, music provides a strong illustration of copyright protection, making it one of the most relevant 10 examples of copyright in modern media.
3. Movies and Television Shows
Films and TV shows represent another major category of copyrighted works. When a film is created, multiple copyrights may apply—covering the script, soundtrack, acting performances, and the film itself as an audiovisual work.
Take the Marvel Cinematic Universe as an example. The Avengers movies are protected works, and their unauthorised reproduction (such as pirated copies on websites) is considered copyright infringement. Streaming or downloading pirated versions violates the rights of creators and producers.
This third of the 10 examples of copyright shows how copyright law helps protect the massive investments made in the entertainment industry.
4. Photographs and Artwork
Every photograph taken by a professional or amateur photographer is automatically protected by copyright. The photographer holds the exclusive right to reproduce, publish, or sell that image. Similarly, artwork—such as paintings, digital illustrations, and graphic designs—are covered by copyright law.
For instance, if a photographer takes a wedding picture, only they own the rights to that photo unless they explicitly transfer them. Similarly, using someone else’s artwork for a website, logo, or merchandise without permission is a clear violation of copyright law.
Photography and art therefore, serve as the fourth item in our 10 examples of copyright, showing how creative visuals are legally protected.
5. Software and Computer Programs
Copyright doesn’t just protect creative arts like books and music—it also applies to technology. Software code is considered a literary work under copyright law. This means computer programs, apps, and operating systems are protected against unauthorised copying, modification, or distribution.
For example, Microsoft Windows and Adobe Photoshop are copyrighted programs. Creating pirated versions or distributing cracked software is illegal. Open-source software may allow sharing and modification, but even then, it is governed by copyright terms set by the creator.
This makes software a highly practical entry in our list of 10 examples of copyright.
6. Websites and Online Content
In the digital age, websites themselves are protected by copyright. This includes text, graphics, design, layout, and original multimedia published online.
For example, if you copy entire blog posts, product descriptions, or website designs from another site and post them as your own, you are committing copyright infringement. That’s why many website owners issue DMCA takedown notices when they find their content duplicated online without permission.
This sixth of the 10 examples of copyright highlights how internet content is safeguarded in the modern world.
7. Architectural Works
Copyright also extends to architecture. Original designs of buildings and structures, once fixed in blueprints or physical construction, are legally protected.
For example, if an architect designs a unique stadium or museum, others cannot simply replicate it without authorisation. The law recognises both the creative and functional aspects of architecture, offering protection against copying or misappropriation.
This makes architecture a less commonly known, but very important, addition to our 10 examples of copyright.
8. Video Games
Video games are complex works that combine multiple types of copyright protection, including software code, storylines, music, graphics, and gameplay mechanics.
For instance, games like Fortnite or Grand Theft Auto are copyrighted products. Copying their game code, using their character models, or distributing pirated versions all count as copyright infringement.
The gaming industry heavily relies on copyright to protect its multi-billion-dollar global market, making video games a critical part of the 10 examples of copyright.
9. Educational Materials and Research Papers
Copyright also applies to educational works such as textbooks, research papers, and academic journals. Authors, researchers, and publishers hold the rights to these works, and unauthorised reproduction is prohibited.
For example, downloading or distributing textbooks through illegal channels or reproducing research papers without permission violates copyright. However, in education, fair use sometimes applies—for example, quoting short passages for teaching or commentary.
This ninth item in our 10 examples of copyright shows the balance between protecting intellectual work and promoting knowledge-sharing.
10. Choreography and Dramatic Works
The final example is choreography and dramatic works, such as stage plays, dance routines, and theatre performances. These creative expressions are also protected by copyright when fixed in written notation, video recordings, or scripts.
For example, Broadway plays like Hamilton or classic works like Shakespeare’s plays (in certain adaptations) are copyrighted. Similarly, choreographed dance routines in music videos are protected under copyright law.
This completes our 10 examples of copyright, covering not only traditional works but also performance-based creations.
Why These 10 Examples of Copyright Matter
By reviewing these 10 examples of copyright, it becomes clear that copyright is not just about protecting books or music—it spans across nearly every form of creative work in society. The law ensures that creators:
- Maintain control over their works.
- Receive recognition and financial benefit.
- Prevent others from unfairly exploiting their efforts.
At the same time, copyright law balances public interest by allowing for fair use, which permits limited use of copyrighted works for education, commentary, parody, or research.
Challenges and Controversies in Copyright
Even though the law protects the 10 examples of copyright we discussed, challenges still exist:
- Piracy: Widespread online piracy threatens industries like film, music, and software.
- Fair Use Disputes: Determining what counts as fair use is often complex.
- International Issues: Copyright laws differ across countries, creating challenges for global enforcement.
- Technology: With AI now generating content, questions arise about whether AI-created works are eligible for copyright.
These issues show that while copyright protection is strong, it must constantly evolve to meet modern challenges.
Conclusion
Copyright plays a crucial role in protecting creativity, innovation, and cultural expression. From books and movies to software and architecture, the 10 examples of copyright explored in this article demonstrate the wide scope of works safeguarded by the law.
For creators, understanding copyright ensures their work is protected and their rights respected. For consumers, awareness helps avoid infringement and encourages fair use. As technology advances, the importance of copyright will only continue to grow, shaping how we create, share, and enjoy intellectual works worldwide.