“Pomme” by Kristina Servant (CC BY 2.0)

Lawrence Lessig tackles the topic of copyright laws versus the age of digitalization comparing the importance of giving recognition to the original artist (as I have done for this picture and the others I have used on my blog) yet while still allowing creative freedom to those who use the images, writings, etc they come across. He feels the “existing system of copyright simply could never work in the digital age” yet he understands the need to protect original works whether for monetary or personal gain (Remix, 167). He sees copyrighting as a great way to protect the producer of the product (for example if this is their livelihood) as they are the one who put the time in to create it. Yet, Lessig believes the laws stifle creativity of the younger generation who may come across the creation and want to further it by putting their spin on it or share it with others who may not have seen it otherwise. When I saw the pictures (except the cranberry and orange zest photo which is one of my own creations) I realized somebody took the time to beautifully photograph food. In 100 pictures on Flickr, you’re lucky to find 5 that are professionally taken. I felt it was only right to give credit to the photographer of the works I chose as they created these pieces, yet they were so beautiful I wanted to share them on my page. By sharing these photos not only have I inspired myself to step up my game on taking photos of food I also hope to interest people in looking at my page. I understand through Lessig’s explanation that people will feel less inclined to share their labor if they receive no credit or financial gain from it, which is why it makes sense to offer protection and acknowledgement to the creator. I thought about how if I created a website and offered recipes that were copied and not credited I could lose foot traffic on my site which doesn’t help when you want to brand yourself. On the reverse, that’s kind of something you have to expect, what is on the internet or put anywhere out the for consumers, the likelihood of having it illegally shared is high. After reading Lessig’s insight I have a new appreciation for copyright laws, creators, and the consumer.