---
title: What types of content are protected by copyright law?
description: Legal Faqs explores the intricacies of copyright law and the types of content it protects. From music and literature to images and software, gain a comprehensive understanding of what is and isn't safeguarded. Read more on Legal Faqs.
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 March 31, 2023

# What types of content are protected by copyright law?

![Picture of Chris Battis](https://www.legalfaq.ai/hs-fs/hubfs/battis-mug.jpg?width=50&name=battis-mug.jpg) By  [Chris Battis](https://www.legalfaq.ai/faqs/author/chris-battis)  ·   1 minute read

Under copyright law, various types of content are protected when they are in a tangible form of expression. This means that they are created and shown through a physical real-life manifestation like books, movies, music recordings, or artwork.

## The following types of content are protected under copyright law:

1. **Literary works:** This includes books, articles, poems, or any other written material.
2. **Musical works:** Any music composition, whether vocal or instrumental, is protected under copyright law.
3. **Dramatic works:** This includes plays, scripts, or screenplays.
4. **Pictorial, graphic, or sculptural works:** This includes photographs, paintings, drawings, sculptures, or any other visual art form.
5. **Film or video works:** All motion pictures and video productions, including animations or documentaries, are protected under copyright law.
6. **Sound recordings:** This includes recorded speeches or music compositions, as well as other audio content.
7. **Architectural works:** Buildings or other architectural visual elements may be protected under copyright law.

Copyright law protects the above types of content automatically without any need of registration with the government. However, registering your copyright protection solidifies your claim to your work if there is ever an infringement case that needs to be taken to court.

It is important to note that certain aspects of these works may not be protected by copyright law. For example, ideas and concepts are not protected by copyright law, but rather are protected through patent law or common law unfair competition.

It is also possible to use an existing copyrighted work as inspiration for a new one without infringing upon it, as long as the resulting work is a new and original creation that sufficiently differs from the original work. If you are unsure of the extent of copyright protections and the potential limitations, it is best to seek legal advice from a licensed attorney.

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