Creator Spotlight with Photographer Rick Fogerty
This week, we are pleased to introduce Rick Fogerty (aka Cowboy Rick). He’s a Certified Professional Photographer, FAA-Certified Drone Pilot, and proud LGBTBE® business owner who has built a career around visual storytelling, integrity, and protecting creator rights. After reading his spotlight blog, check him out on Instagram.
What was the inspiration behind becoming a creator? What do you enjoy most about the creative process?
As a Certified Professional Photographer, FAA-Certified Drone Pilot, and proudly certified LGBT Business Enterprise (LGBTBE®), my creative journey began with a passion for visual storytelling and architecture. I found my calling in real estate photography — capturing the heart of a home and turning it into a compelling visual experience. What I enjoy most is helping REALTORS® and property managers elevate their listings with clean, accurate, emotionally resonant photos. The moment a client says, “This made all the difference,” is why I do what I do.
Can you talk through your creative process? How long does it take? Does everything you produce make money?
Each project begins with careful planning. FAA airspace checks for drone sessions, client consultations, and location prep. I use professional-grade gear, like my Sony Alpha camera and drones, and send all photos through a trusted editing service. I also include value-adds like 2D floor plans, virtual staging, and digital enhancements under my Accu-branded service line. Not everything earns immediate income, but everything I create builds brand equity, authority, and long-term client trust.
When did you first become aware of copyright, and why?
From day one, I knew copyright mattered — especially in real estate, where images are often misused or shared without permission. But it wasn’t until I began registering my work for copyright protection with the U.S. Copyright Office that I saw how powerful it could be. In late 2024, I started registering batches of real estate images quarterly. I joined RightsClick, a copyright management platform I discovered at the Photo + Media for Real Estate (PMRE) Conference in Las Vegas. It has completely changed how I manage and enforce my rights.
Have you experienced copyright infringement and, if so, how has it affected you personally and financially?
Yes, a recent case hit close to home. I delivered licensed photos to a listing agent who confirmed he still represented the property. A few weeks later, I noticed the same images used by a new agent on a refreshed listing. It turns out the original agent had shared my copyrighted images without permission. I issued a takedown notice and negotiated a new licensing fee with the second agent, who was very professional. I plan to bring the matter to the MetroTex Association of REALTORS® ethics board, where I serve as an affiliate volunteer. Even though I recovered the fee, it was a clear violation, and I want to ensure agents are better educated about copyright responsibilities.
What is the best piece of advice that you would give other creators in your field about copyright and how to protect themselves?
Register your images with the U.S. Copyright Office. Use RightsClick to manage your filings, especially if you produce high volumes. Watermarking isn’t enough. Also, talk about copyright openly with your clients. Include it in your contracts, email templates, and delivery pages. Education and prevention are just as important as enforcement.
What is your biggest copyright-related challenge?
Many agents don’t understand that real estate photographers retain copyright unless a specific license or buyout agreement says otherwise. Misuse often comes from a lack of awareness, not evil intent, but it still causes harm. The biggest challenge is balancing protecting my work and maintaining good client relationships. That’s why community education and systems like RightsClick are so valuable.
How has AI technology impacted your works and career?
AI tools have helped streamline parts of my workflow, especially editing and marketing, but they’ve also raised new concerns. Generative AI can replicate photography styles, and the unauthorized use of copyrighted images to train these models is still a gray area. I remain optimistic but cautious, advocating for creator rights and transparency as the technology evolves.
As we celebrate Pride Month, I’m proud to represent diverse creators and advocate for copyright protection through my work and voice. Being a certified LGBTBE® isn’t just a badge — it’s a commitment to visibility, professionalism, and equality in every project I deliver.
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!