Community Partner Spotlight: Free Juice
Today, we turn the spotlight over to one of our newest community partners, Free Juice. They are a non-profit organization that seeks to “accelerate diversity in the photography industry through mentorship.” After you read their spotlight blog, be sure to follow them on Instagram and Facebook.
What is the history of your organization, and what is its mission?
Our organization, Free Juice, accelerates diversity in photography through mentorship, supporting early-career photo-workers by breaking barriers to success. Based in Houston and led by a Black woman, we extend our influence to cities like New York and Los Angeles, fostering a diverse photo industry. Our annual Free Juice University mentorship program connects emerging photographers with industry professionals. We equip them with skills, resources, and support to thrive, emphasizing accessibility and professional readiness. Collaboration is central to our mission, amplifying BIPOC-owned creatives and businesses.
How do you support members of the creative community, and how can a creator get involved with your organization?
We partner emerging photo professionals with our Juice Champs (people who are currently in the industry) through mentorship.
What inspired your organization to become a Copyright Alliance community partner?
We love the mission of the Copyright Alliance. It is a pillar in the creative community and a core learning staple. I think it’s important for every creator to have a sense of their value, and the mission of the Copyright Alliance and their work makes that possible.
How have copyright and related issues affected your organization and its creator base?
It wasn’t until I was a professional myself, well into the industry, that I realized the impact of copyright. Being able to advocate for yourself and your work as a creator is one of the most self-sufficient things you can do. Historically, copyright is not the most intriguing context and content type that creators like to learn, but I cannot express how beneficial it is to have in your arsenal.
What is one thing you wish creators understood more clearly about copyright?
Knowing your rights will save you a lot of time and money. Standing in your power when discussing money and budgets is the most important thing.
What advice would you give aspiring creators just starting out and unsure of how to protect their work?
Invest in resources like the Copyright Alliance or work closely with someone who understands the nuances of copyright.
What are some current debates or issues surrounding copyright law that your organization is paying attention to, and what is your stance on them?
Free Juice is closely following debates around the impact of AI-generated content on copyright law, the balance between fair use and copyright infringement, and the challenges posed to creators by digital piracy. We believe that while AI offers exciting possibilities, it’s crucial to ensure creators’ rights are protected and their work is not exploited without proper attribution and compensation. We advocate for clear guidelines and updated regulations that address these emerging issues. We also work with partners with greater knowledge of AI technology and copyright.
What are some common misconceptions that creators have about copyright, and how does your organization address them?
A common misconception among creators is that registering their work is unnecessary or too complicated. Many also believe that simply posting their work online offers sufficient protection. Our organization addresses these misconceptions through educational workshops, resources, and one-on-one mentorship. We emphasize the importance of formally registering work to secure legal protection and provide guidance on how to effectively manage and enforce their copyrights. We introduce our community to resources to help them understand and navigate the copyright process.
If you aren’t already a member of the Copyright Alliance, you can join today by completing our Individual Creator Members membership form! Members gain access to monthly newsletters, educational webinars, and so much more — all for free!