Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today ; Grinch-themed Christmas photos look fun, could have serious legal consequences, experts say
"Dr. Seuss Enterprises, the company that owns all of the properties belonging to the late Theodor Seuss Geisel, is reportedly known for fiercely protecting its intellectual property. Warnings on the topic appear regularly on social media sites, such as one posted last week by a Knoxville, Tennessee photographer who explained why she avoids doing Grinch-themed shoots, even though she is asked about them yearly...
"Friendly reminder that shooting Grinch-themed photo sessions FOR A PROFIT (that’s the important part… if you’re not charging a fee you’re good) is federal trademark infringement," she said, alleging that the company has a team dedicated to scouring the internet for these infringements.
"Several years ago, a photographer offered Grinch mini sessions and her post went viral. Like, super viral. She was slapped with a lawsuit almost immediately annnnddd…. she lost. Copyright infringement is not a joke," the post continues."
