Is there a way to copyright digital artwork?

Question

...without paying. Most every online source I've found says that the 'poor man's copyright' won't hold up in court (mailing your work to yourself via the postal service). I know about registering your work but that's so expensive. Are there any legal alternatives?

Answer 1

You technically have copyright as soon as you create the art, but if you want to register an actual copyright (if you think someone might steal your work, it's probably the best to do this - it's the one that holds up the strongest in litigation), you have to pay money. There's a set fee for registering copyright in every country that has a copyrights office, so there's not really a way around it.

Answer 2

If you want something copyrighted or service marked, it will cost you money. It is just the way it works. Nothing is free. (unless you are an illegal alien!)