What is "Copyright"? Which types of work are subject to copyright? Copyright ownership gives the owner the exclusive right to use the work, with some exceptions. When a person creates an original work, fixed in a tangible medium, he or she automatically owns copyright to the work. Many types of works are eligible for copyright protection, for example: Audiovisual works, such as TV shows, movies, and online videos Sound recordings and musical compositions Written works, such as lectures, articles, books, and musical compositions Visual works, such as paintings, posters, and advertisements Video games and computer software Dramatic works, such as plays and musicals The Copyright Office has information online, and you can check with a lawyer if you want to know more.